Obituaries

Patricia Ann (Pat) Thompson, formerly of Batavia, passed away on September 29, 2024 in Grand Blanc, MI. She was 92. She was born on December 30, 1931 in Buffalo, NY the daughter of James C. and Beulah (Adams) Follett. She lived her early life in Franklinville, NY and was married to the love of her life Glenn Edwin Thompson for 59 years. Pat and Glenn lived throughout western New York including Machias, Franklinville, Oakfield, Batavia, Lockport, and Akron as Glenn pursued his career in public schools. Pat was homemaker and loving mother. She participated in many school, community, and church functions. She loved arts and crafts including ceramics, tole painting, flower arrangements and decorating. Her favorite pastime was “antiquing” with friends and finding that deal of a lifetime at flea markets, shops, and garage sales.
She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law Mark A. and Patricia G. Thompson, and son Scott A. Thompson as well as many nieces and nephews. Pat is pre-deceased by her parents, husband Glenn, sister Joan (Follett) Long and brother James Follett. Arrangements were entrusted to Village Funeral Home, 135 South St., Ortonville, MI. She will be laid to rest at Great Lakes National Cemetery, Holly, MI. Service will be private. Memorial donations may be made to Leader Dogs for the Blind, Rochester, MI. To send a condolence to the family please visit www.villagefh.com

John Gerard DelPlato, 71, of Sodus, NY, formerly of Batavia, entered Heaven's land to be with his Lord and Savior for all eternity. He died of a cerebral hemorrhage on July 5, 2024 at Rochester General Hospital with loved ones by his side. He was born on August 22, 1952, a son of the late Daniel and Mary (Marcello) DelPlato. He is also predeceased by his baby sister; Christine and brother Vincenzo.

He is survived by his sister; Mary E. DelPlato of Batavia; brothers Frank DelPlato of Oneonta, Charley DelPlato (Linda Payne), Daniel, Joseph, Michael (Bridget Barker) DelPlato all of Batavia; Carmen (Debbie Sperring) DelPlato of Williamson; nieces and nephews; James, Anthony, Richard, Sophia, Danielle, Jonathan, Marcella (Alan Quintana) Joseph and Theo, also survived by his godparents; Al and Gloria Sardo of Virginia; along with many cousins.

All through his adult life he had to deal with schizophrenia. During his youthful years, John excelled at baseball, whether it was youth baseball or high school. His most memorable moment was pitching a no hitter in Little League. He liked to bowl and participated in the high school drama club. Every chance he had, he would tell others about Jesus. John was given the gift of songwriting. He expressed his faith through his music. He wrote over a 100 songs. A CD of some of his Christian songs was made with the help of his nephew Anthony and sold at Roxy’s music store. To honor his memory, consider attending a church service this weekend.

As per John’s wishes, his body was donated to the UB Anatomical Gift program. A Memorial Service is planned for Saturday, October 5, 2024 at Ascension Church at 9:30am.

Memorials may be made to a charity of your choice. Click this link to listen to some of John’s Christian and secular songs.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RRpnf9kt-d8&list=PL1VMu0z9oTjvcPVzib9zi305ym0TXqsry

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.

Francis N. Penna Sr., a beloved resident of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 16th, 2024, at the age of 81 at Crossroads House following a courageous battle with cancer. Born in Batavia on Sunday, December 6th, 1942, he led a full and dynamic life grounded in love, service, and community.

An Eagle Scout, he was a 1960 graduate of Notre Dame High School in Batavia and pursued higher education at the Rochester Institute of Technology. His professional career spanned several decades, primarily serving as an engineer with the New York State Department of Transportation in Rochester. Following his retirement, he remained active in his field as a surveyor with Lamendola & Townsend in Batavia.

Frank was a dedicated family man, deeply cherished by his loved ones. He is survived by his sister, Marianne (Michael) Kenny of Rochester, his daughter Maria Penna of Batavia, his son Francis N. (Lisa) Penna III of Elba, and his grandchildren Marissa Carbonell, Francis N. Penna IV, and Angelo Penna, who were his pride and joy. He dedicated much of his time to attending his grandchildren's events, always putting family first.

In addition to his family, Frank kept himself busy with numerous interests. He had an unparalleled love for Christmas, cooking, traveling, and animals, especially dogs. He was also an avid fan of the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees, and San Francisco 49ers. Known for his good sense of humor and generosity, he will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.

He served proudly with the National Guard for six years, a testament to his dedication to his country and community. His legacy of service and commitment will be remembered by all those who knew him.

He was preceded in death by his loving parents, Francis N. Penna Sr. and Mary Penna, as well as his brother Jeremy Penna. He now joins them in eternal peace.

The family will receive friends and family for visitation at Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street  in Batavia, on Sunday, October 6th, 2024, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm. His Funeral Mass will be held in celebration of his life at 9:30 am at St. Joseph's Church, 303 East Main Street, Batavia, on Monday, October 7th, 2024. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph's Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, New York 14021. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Frank will be dearly missed. His life was a testament to love, kindness, and devotion, and his memory will live in the hearts of those who loved him forever.

Calvin A. Dutton 6,2 of Foley Alabama formerly of Byron N. Y. Passed away on Sept. 1st 2024 under the care of hospice. Calvin was born to the late Gilbert W. and Marion Dutton ( Greene ). He is survived my his partner Michelle Richmond, step father Jerry Greene, 3 brothers Tim ( Theresa ), Jeff ( Toni ) and Brian ( Diane ). His 4 sisters Colleen, Dawn , Brenda, and Sandy. Many niece's, nephews, great niece's, nephews, and cousins. Calvin will be cremated in Foley Alabama

Andrew J Chatt, Jr at 80 years old died peacefully at Monument Health Hospital in Rapid City, South Dakota under hospice care.
He is survived by his wife, Christine and his daughter Julie(Steve) Wing.

Andy worked for many years at Doehler Jarvis. He was also a volunteer firefighter for the Town of Batavia, which he loved and was very proud of. 

He is also survived by his sisters, Shirley (late Doug) Scott, Diane (Chuck) Lee and Susan (Ronald) Odessa. Also his brother Michael (Patricia) Chatt.
He is predeceased by his parents, Andrew and Dorothy Chatt and his sister, Nancy Chatt Jaszko.
Andy will be laid to rest in South Dakota.

Rochester ~ Douglas C. Michel, age 71, formerly of the LeRoy area, passed away Tuesday evening (September 24, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital.

     He was born December 7, 1952 in Batavia, a son of the late Andrew and Virginia Cheeseman Michel.   

  Doug will be remembered as a loving companion, a great father, a wonderful grandfather and uncle and a dear friend to many.  He was a hardworking and dedicated farmer, who was passionate about his trade.  He was a very generous, kind, caring and giving man, who was known to be a “jack of all trades”, being able to fix anything.

     He will be sadly missed by his loving and devoted significant other, Vanza McEntee; his children, Jason (Patricia) Michel and Sherry (Thomas) Hogle; grandchildren, Zachary (Carolyne) Michel, Hailey Michel, Eli Michel, Paige Michel, Jacey Sullivan and Cole Sullivan; siblings, William Michel and Carol Ganshaw; sister-in-law, Linda Michel; brother-in-law, Ed Ganshaw; nephews, Daniel (Amanda) Ganshaw, Andrew (Kristen) Ganshaw and Adam (Missy) Michel; nieces, Ellen (Michael) Vogler, Laura Michel and Jennifer Moss, his second set of “children and grandchildren”, Andrea and Shawn Scotney and their sons Jack and Quinn and Jaclyn and Daniel Mullen and their children Lily and Mason, along with many great nephews, great nieces and dear friends.

     In addition to his parents, Doug was predeceased by his brother, Robert Michel.

     A Celebration of Doug’s Life will be held on Sunday, September 29 from 2 ~ 5 PM at the LeRoy Country Club, 7759 E. Main Road, LeRoy, NY 14482.

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

Marian G. Peck of Byron, N.Y., died Monday, September 16, 2024, in Rochester, three days before her 99th birthday. She was born to George and Mary (Hartrich) Geise in Bennington, N.Y., on September 19, 1925. She graduated from Attica H.S. and attended Rochester Business Institute.
    
On January 17, 1945, she married Richard F. Peck of Byron. They spent most of their married life there. As a World War II bride, Marian relished accompanying her seaman husband from port to port along the Atlantic Coast when he was not stationed abroad. And after their children were grown, Marian and Richard enjoyed extensive overseas travel. 
    
As a longtime parishioner of St. Michael’s Church in Byron and subsequently at St. Brigid’s in Bergen, Marian was always involved in church and civic activities. She also volunteered at Crossroads House, a comfort care facility in Batavia.
    
Marian’s husband Richard, son Gilbert, and daughter Aileen predeceased her, as did her sister Margaret and brother Edmund. Survivors include son George Peck of Byron; daughters Monica (Peck) Simons and Maureen Peck of Denver, Colo.; and Mary (Peck) Lester, son-in-law Howard Lester, and granddaughter Amandaleah Lester of Hemlock; grandson John Simons, granddaughter-in-law Natalie, and great-grandchildren Kaitlyn, Riley, and Elliot Simons of Littleton, Colo.
    
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 22, followed by burial at East Bethany Cemetery.
    
Arrangements for Marian were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Bergen, (585) 494-1210. 
        
To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Leah Brigiotta Robinson, age 75, of Attica passed away peacefully at Buffalo General Hospital on September 24, 2024, surrounded by her family and friends after her courageous battle with leukemia and glioblastoma.

She was born in Jamestown, NY on June 2, 1949 to Sam and Ann Brigiotta.

Leah graduated from Brockport University in 1971 and began teaching 6th grade Math and English at Attica Middle School where she taught for 33 years before retiring in 2004. Leah was the most generous, caring, thoughtful, and selfless mother and Nana anybody could have hoped for. She loved her children and grandchildren more than anything, and gave them everything she had until the very end. She cherished her regular, usually daily, talks with her children and sister. She was proud of her children and the parents they had become. She spent countless hours caring for her grandchildren, sometimes flying across the country at the drop of a hat in order to help. Nana never missed one of the kids’ sporting events, vigorously cheering from the sidelines. She was often seen walking around town heading to the library or the park, showing off her grandkids to anyone she’d see. She loved to golf, but mostly because it involved being surrounded by family and friends. She could light up the room with her laugh and personality. Her never ending love and generosity were felt by everybody she was near.

She is reunited with her parents, Sam and Ann, her Father and Mother-in-Law Ralph and Eve, and her brothers Frank and Sam.

Her memory will be forever carried on by her husband Dale Robinson of Attica, sister Sally Ann Matey of Jamestown, children Greg Robinson of Darien, Jon (Tasha) Robinson of Charlotte,  Katie (Robert) Elkins of San Diego, 6 grandchildren Michael (10), Evie (8), Cole (7), Easton (7), Nolan (4), and Nora Leahann (6 months), and many other family and friends.

Friends and family are invited to visit on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, with a service following, at Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main St, Attica, NY. A luncheon will immediately follow at Attica’s 10th Hole & Golf Course.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Stevens Memorial Community Library or a cancer charity which may have impacted you most.

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

John J. Branche, cherished father, grandfather, and dedicated community member, peacefully passed away on September 7, 2024, at the age of 81, in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina with his daughter, granddaughter and friends by his side.. Born in Batavia, on June 26, 1943 John lived a remarkable life, marked by his commitment to family, community, and country.

John graduated from Notre Dame High School in Batavia and went on to serve with distinction in the United States Air Force from 1962 to 1966. A Vietnam Veteran, John began his military career at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, and subsequently served at Westover Air Force Base in Chicopee, Massachusetts. His service included assignments in England, Japan, the Philippines, Okinawa, and Guam, where he dedicated himself as a ground-to-air radio operator, proudly serving his nation during a time of conflict.

After his honorable discharge from the US Air Force, John returned to home and began his career at Eastman Kodak Company in Rochester, New York, where he worked in stock control until his retirement. Not one to rest, he continued to contribute to his community by working at The Manor House in Batavia following his retirement from Kodak.

John was a dedicated fan of the Buffalo Bills, an avid golfer and fisherman, and a beloved fixture of the Horseshoe Lake community. His love for these pastimes was only eclipsed by his love for his family.

He is survived by his son, Gregory (Emily) Branche of Hilton, NY; his daughter, Jacquelyn Branche of Myrtle Beach, SC; and his sister, Roxie Deleo of Kure Beach, NC. John also leaves behind six adoring grandchildren who will cherish the memories of their devoted grandfather.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Branche, Sr. and Frances Branche, and his brother, James Branche, Jr.

Visitation will take place at H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia, New York, on Friday, October 4th, 2024, from 10:00 am to 12:00 pm. A graveside service, with military honors, will follow at Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu, New York, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm. Afterward, friends and family are invited to gather for a reception at Terry Hills Restaurant, 5122 Clinton Street Road, Batavia, beginning at 2:30 pm. All are welcome to join in the remembrance and celebration of John's life. To leave a note of remembrance or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

John's spirit of kindness, generosity, and unwavering love will forever be remembered by all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but eternally loved. May he rest in peace.

Thomas Steffenella, age 87, of LeRoy, passed away on September 25, 2024.

     He was born on October 7, 1936 in LeRoy, a son of the late Angelo and Mary Tramontana Steffenilla.  

   He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Sharon (LaBarbera) Steffenella; his children, Thomas A. Steffenella of LeRoy, Anna (Thomas) Perl of Stafford, Charles (Lesley Jones) Steffenella of Oxford, NC and Teresa (David Abwender) Steffenella of LeRoy; five grandchildren, Victoria, Joseph and Andrew Perl and Laney and Kiley Steffenella.

     In addition to his parents, Tom was predeceased by his brothers, Anthony, Michael, Samuel, Joseph, Alfonso, Charles, Thomas(age 2 years) and Thomas(age 8 days) and sisters, Carrie, Rose, Jennie, Josephine and Agnes.

     Tom was a proud veteran of the U.S. Army, serving as an MP in Korea.  He later worked for many years at Lapp Insulator in LeRoy, then Batavia.

     He will be remembered as a kind and gentle man, who loved his vegetable garden and had a joke to tell anyone he met.  He will be dearly missed as the best father and papa/grandpa any children could have.

     Family and friends may call on Thursday October 3 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  His Rite of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, October 4 at 1:00 PM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake St., LeRoy.  Interment with military honors will follow at St. Francis Cemetery.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Genesee Cancer Assistance, 127 North Street, Batavia, N.Y. 14020.

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

Diana M. (Maniace) D’Alba of Batavia, NY entered peacefully into rest on Tuesday, September 24th 2024 at United Memorial Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.

Born February 27th, 1946, she was the daughter of the late John and Jean (DiAntonio) Maniace and sister of the late Joanie (Maniace) DeFlippo.  

Diana was a graduate of Batavia High School Class of 1964 and Genesee Community College of Nursing.  Diana was a dedicated RN working in area facilities including the V.A., St. Jerome Hospital, UMMC, and The Village Greens.  Diana was a member of St. Mary’s Church and a loving mother, sister, daughter, grandmother and friend to many and will be missed greatly.  

She is survived by her son, Matthew and Jennifer Gray, grandchildren Leo and Lillian who she loved fiercely, brother Cliff and Donna Bagg, brother-in-law Jerry DeFlippo, and aunt, Rose Pastecki.  Diana is survived by many relatives and close friends who she loved dearly with words, hugs, and most of all amazing treats and goodies - More is always better.  

Calling hours will be from 4-7pm at H.E. Turner Funeral Home on Monday, September 30th.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 9:30am at St. Joseph’s (Resurrection Parish) 303 E. Main St, Batavia on Tuesday, October 1st. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, consider donations in her name to the National Kidney Foundation,1344 University Ave #270, Rochester, NY 14607. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

We are saddened to announce the passing of James H. Manes, a cherished great-grandfather, grandfather, father, brother, husband, and friend, who left us on 9/24/2024.

Jim served his country with pride as a Marine for three years, demonstrating strength and dedication. After his service, he found excitement in sulky racing, where his competitive spirit shone brightly.

He was also an avid outdoorsman, spending countless hours in nature. Jim had a knack for giving everyone a hard time, always with a playful grin.

Above all, Jim loved his family.  He is survived by his loving wife, Barbara; his children, Stephen, Glenn, Chris, Tim; his sister Lucille; his grandchildren, Chris, Brittany, Julianna, Stormy, Owen; eight great-grandchildren; and many friends who will miss his humor and warmth.

There are no prior calling hours. A celebration of Jim's life will be held at a later date. He will be laid to rest in Cary Cemetery. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in Jim's memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com. Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.

Rest in peace, Jim. Your memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew you.

Kenneth E. Wood, 78 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday (September 23, 2024) at Crossroads House.

He leaves his wife Loduska “Dusty” Wood; His son Stephen (Denise) Wood of North Carolina; daughter Alicia (Steven) Thiers of Churchville; grandson Zachary Thiers; sister Jean (Dennis) Lutes of North Carolina; step children, Kelly Nails of Virginia, Brian (Bunnie) Passmore of Arizona, Shawn (Tiffany) Passmore of Lima, NY and Erin Penders of Arizona. Also survived by several nieces and nephews and cousins in Elmira, NY and North Carolina. Best friend Tom Ranalli.

Ken was a corrections officer at Attica Correctional Facility prior to his retirement after 50 years. He also worked at Tops Market in Batavia for 45 years. He proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy from 1964-1966.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Monday (September 30^th) from 10am-12:45pm at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, where a funeral service will follow at 12:45pm. Burial with military honors will be in the Western New York National Cemetery.

Memorial donations may be offered to Crossroads House, P. O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021. 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.

It is with much sadness we announce the passing of Michael T. Parrish, at the age of 58. He was the loving son of Joann (Stephens) Parrish and the late Matthew “Sonny” Parrish. Along with his mother, Mike is survived by his sisters, Suzanne Winkelman and Julianne (Kevin) Burg along with his niece and nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins and his many close friends that became his family away from home.

Mike graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1984. He went on to attend the Golf Academy of America in Orlando, FL and became a Professional Golf Caddie. He spent his winters in Vero Beach, FL working at Red Stick Golf Club and his summers in Lake Bluff, IL working at Shoreacres Golf Club doing what he loved, carrying a golf bag!

There will be no visitation or funeral services. Instead, we invite you to honor Mike’s memory by doing something that makes you happy: a round of golf, an act of kindness or just finding joy in the simple pleasures.

James Czekala, 75, of Alexander, NY, passed away September 23, 2024 after a brief illness.  He was the son of the late Raymond and Patricia Pinkerton Czekala.   

  Jim was the owner of C & H Welding Supply in Batavia, NY, for many years before building and operating C & H Dyno Service and Dynotech Research.  He loved sharing his passion of tuning engines and making his friends and acquaintances go fast.

     Jim is survived by his loving wife, Michele Murray Czekala; his daughter, Lynne (Max) Feldman of Petersham, MA, and their children, Samuel and Elliott; his son, Martin Czekala of Alexander; sisters, Linda (Wayne) Olson of Ventura, CA and Bonnie Zijic of New York, NY; brothers-in-law, Daniel Marsh of Cotuit, MA, John (Mary) Murray and Timothy (Darcie) Murray of Mumford, NY; mother-in-law, Marguerite Green, and several nieces and nephews. Jim is also survived by many close friends and acquaintances.

     In addition to his parents, Jim is predeceased by his sister, Leslie Marsh.

     There are no calling hours.  A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a future date.

     The family requests no flowers or memorials.

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