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Obituaries

Florence V. Pontillo

By T.J. Woodward

Florence V. Pontillo, 94 of Batavia passed away peacefully surrounded by her family at Crossroads House in Batavia. She was born March 18, 1929 in Batavia to the late James and Florence (Falkowski) Sformo. She is preceded in death by her first husband, Frank “Windy” Pontillo and second Charles Poteat, siblings, Genevieve (George) Jacobs, Helen (Peter) deJongh, James (Lena) Sformo, Larry (Linda) Sformo and Alice Sformo.  

Flo worked as a beautician, learning her trade at Viola’s Beauty Shop in Batavia. She began working at Gilmartin Funeral Home when it opened in 1955 and stayed for three generations of Funeral Director’s retiring after 60 plus years. Flo was past President of VFW Post 1602 Ladies Auxiliary. She loved to travel, go to the casino, spend time with her family and will be remembered for her fantastic sense of humor.

She is survived by her son Michael “Goose” (Deborah) Pontillo of Batavia, grandsons, Frank (Lola) Pontillo of Liberty Hill, TX; Vincent (Brooke) Pontillo of Batavia, four great-grandchildren, Angelina, Serena, Benjamin and Nina, sisters, Lorraine (Karl) Dilcher, Marcy (Fran) Wiecher, Rosemary (Walter) Christian, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14020. 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.

Ronald J. Snyder Sr

By T.J. Woodward
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Ronald J. Snyder Sr, 87, of Elba, passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024 at NYS Veterans Home @ Batavia. He was born July 18, 1936 in Alabama, NY to the late Charles J. and Marjorie (Spencer) Snyder. He is preceded in death by a son Gerald Snyder and four siblings, Betty, Vera, Bob and Gene.

Mr. Snyder was a proud United States Army Veteran. He was a self-employed truck driver after driving for Ragu Foods for over 20 years. In his younger years he enjoyed square dancing and was a member of Batavia Twirlers. Mr. Snyder loved camping, and watching sports especially football and hockey.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Luella (Hough) Snyder of Elba, children, Ronald (JoAnn) Snyder Jr of Elba, Brenda (the late Tim) Kelso of Spartanburg, SC; James (Diane) Snyder of Elba, Marylou Porter of Brockton, Raymond (Kelly) Snyder of Batavia, Richard (Chris) Snyder of Batavia, Thomas (Tammy) Snyder of Lyndonville, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. He will be laid to rest in Cary Cemetery, Oakfield.    

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the NYS Veterans Home @ Batavia, Activities Fund, 220 Richmond Ave, Batavia, NY 14020. 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.

William H. Gillam Jr.

By T.J. Woodward
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William H. Gillam Jr, 87 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at Premier Genesee in Batavia. He was born February 26, 1936 in Batavia to the late William Sr and Helen (Hulbert) Gillam. He is predeceased by his beloved wife, Patricia (Oxencis) Gillam, daughter, Anne Marie Gillam Twichell and brother Gerald Gillam.

Mr. Gillam worked for 22 years at GTE Sylvania and after it’s closing he worked at Chapin Manufacturing. He was an avid outdoorsman that loved fishing, cross country skiing and hunting. Mr. Gillam was enjoyed sports and rooting for the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees and Syracuse Orangeman. He was a longtime member of Resurrection Parish in Batavia.

He is survived by sons, William (Doris) Gillam of Chesterfield, MI, James (Annette) Gillam of Batavia, Keith (Lucia) Gillam of East Bethany, sister, Anne Ireland, brother Irving Gillam both of Batavia; four grandchildren, Robert Twichell, Elizabeth (Michael) Lerma, William Gillam IV and Brett Gillam; along with many great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 3, 2024 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A 1:00pm Celebration of his Life will immediately follow on Saturday at the Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Batavia.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or to Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. 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.  

Sherman C. Horton

By Joshua Smith
Horton

Elba - Sherman C. Horton, 98 a lifelong resident of Elba, passed away on Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. Since the summer of 2022 Sherm had lived at the Manor House, Main Street, Batavia.

Mr. Horton was born June 29,1925 in Batavia, the oldest child of the late Sherman R. and Geraldine (Hankinson) Horton.

Sherm was a proud veteran of World War II, having served in the Army Air Force. He was a lifetime member of the Elba Fire Department and had a life-long love affair with antique cars.

Prior to his retirement, Sherman owned and operated the Sherm Horton Insurance Agency, Main Street, Batavia.  He and Gloria enjoyed a second home in Winter Haven, Florida for over 30 years. Sherm was known far and wide as a “people person.”  He enjoyed a good conversation anytime with a friend or a grandchild or whomever had a few minutes to chat. He was a great encourager and not shy about sharing his love for Jesus.

Surviving are his sons, Lon (late Patricia) Horton of Goldsboro, North Carolina, Todd (Kathleen) Horton of Riga, Jonathan (Ellen) Horton of Springville; daughter-in-law, Michelle Horton of Brockport, 10 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren with another on the way.

Sherm was preceded in death by his wife, Gloria J. (Owellen) Horton; son, S. Bradford Horton; his three siblings and their spouses, Lorne (Nancy) Horton, Maxine (L. Arthur) Gubb, and Beverly (Jack) Schirmer.

Friends are invited to visit with the family from 10:00-11:00 am Saturday, February 3, 2024, at Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia.  A memorial service will immediately follow at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Harvest Christian Fellowship, 560 East Ave., Albion, New York 14411 or CARENET of Greater Orleans, PO Box 229, Albion, New York 14411

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Virginia B. Pangrazio

By LaVern Falcone

Stafford ~ Virginia B. Pangrazio, age 93, of Transit Rd., passed away on Friday, January 26, 2024.

     She was born May 7, 1930 in Caledonia, N.Y., a daughter of the late Horace and Ellison Grant Ladd.   

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  Virginia, Mrs. P. as many people knew her by, loved her family unconditionally and enjoyed her time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She also loved taking trips to Vegas with her husband, Paul Sr.  She worked for many years at the Jello Factory and Vanguard Abrasive.

     She will be sadly missed by her children; Cheryl (Timothy) Thomas, Paul Pangrazio Jr. and Darrell Pangrazio; sister, Carol Ashley; sister-in-law, Lorraine Maxwell; grandchildren; Jack McGirr and Justin (Marybeth) McGirr; great-grandchildren; Brody McGirr, Brielle McGirr, Justin McGirr and Alyse McGirr; step-grandchildren; Timothy Thomas Jr., Nicole Thomas, Christopher Thomas and Justin Thomas; step-great-grandchildren; Jorden, Ashley, Joey, Kylie, Kamilah, Gianna, Valerie, Camden and Landon, along with many nieces and nephews.

     Virginia was predeceased by her husband of 64 years, Paul Pangrazio Sr.; son, Richard Pangrazio; grandson, Darrell “Jason” Pangrazio; brothers, Clarence Ladd, Eugene Ladd and Harold Ladd; sisters, Doris Dalcin, Yvonne Conklin and Arlene Marble; and her in-laws, Audrey (Al) Finco, Jean (John) Alexyn and Leo Maxwell.

     Family and friends are invited to attend a graveside service for Virginia on Thursday, February 1st at 11:00 AM at the Stafford Rural Cemetery.

     In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Virginia are suggested to either the Alzheimer's Association or the “Activities Fund” at the LeRoy Village Green Nursing Home.

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

Ronald V. Foster

By Ronald Konieczny
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Ronald V. Foster, 71 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Thursday (January 25, 2024) at his residence under the loving care of his family. 

He was born April 18, 1952, in Niagara Falls, NY, a son of the late Lloyd Foster and Joann Hartman Fearn.

Ron served his country with the U.S. Navy from 1972-1976. He was employed by Rochester Mobile X-Ray prior to his retirement. He enjoyed making stain glass as a hobby. Most of all he enjoyed spending time with his family and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his wife, Deborah Shillea Foster of Batavia. Daughters, Erin (Chris) Stack of Batavia, Karli (Heidi) Shillea of Batavia. Grandchildren, Trent (Aspen) Stack, Tatym (Darrius) Stack, Kylie (Tyrone) Shillea, Patience Thomas, Samantha Thomas and Christopher Walsh. Great-grandchild, Prior Stack. Sister in-law, Dawn Sachs. Brother in-law, James (Paula) Dzierzanowski. Also survived by nieces, nephews, special friends and neighbors.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Wednesday (January 31st) from 4-6pm at the J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, NY, where a Celebration of Life Service and Military Honors will commence at 6pm.

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.

 

 

Mrs. Florine A. Radley

By Joshua Smith

Basom - Mrs. Florine A. Radley, age 82, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at Rochester General Hospital.

She was born on July 10, 1941 a daughter of the late Floyd Kenneth Smart and Cecilia Squires Smart.

She enjoyed camping, mowing her lawn and taking pictures of her grandchildren.

Her husband, Dennis P. Radley, passed away on October 22, 2021.

She is survived by her children, Kristina (Jason) Heale of Oakfield and Jason (Jessica) Falker of Vermont; her grandchildren, MacKenzie Wood, Tyhler Wood, Elijah Falker and Melody Falker; her great-grandchildren, Vance Grazioplane and Ivy Grazioplane.

A celebration of life for Florine and Dennis will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2024 from 1 pm to 4 pm at the Oakfield Fire Hall, 20 Albert Street, Oakfield. Private burial will be at the convenience of the family in Cary Cemetery, Oakfield. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

Arrangements for Flrorine are under the care and direction of the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.

Margaret "Peggy" Bontrager

By Lisa Ace
Bontrager

Margaret "Peggy" Bontrager, 81 of Smithville, TN and formerly of Darien Center, NY sadly passed on to Heaven to be an Angel of GOD, January 21, 2024 with her loving husband of 62 years by her bedside, holding her hand and singing, "Have I told you lately that I love you" and "You are my Sunshine", both songs which meant a lot to each other of them.

Peggy was preceded in death by her Father, William Buyers and her Mother, Charlotte (Austin) Buyers and her brother, Gary. Peggy is survived by her youngest brother, Robert Buyers of PA, her loving husband, Eugene, their dog and companion BABY and their 5 children; Steven (Letisha), Shelly (partner) Donald, Sherry (Shawn) Choate, Brian (Marcia) and Guy (Jennifer), her grandchildren, Erica, Casey and Nickolas, Kyle, Klint, and Wyatt, and Kelli (Benny), Casey and Andrew, her great-grandchildren, Alex, Connor, Nicholas, Cooper, Brooklyn and Chance. Peggy also left behind several Nieces and Nephews along with their families and survived by her dearest sisters-in-law, Carolyn and Rhonda. 

Peggy was a devoted wife, mother and friend, she helped raise their children while working at Greenwoods Restaurant in Darien and returning to College to become a Registered Nurse. Afterwards, she helped Gene run their business, Ringneck Hunting Preserve, where she met, entertained and laughed with the hunters and their families. All of whom became very good friends. She was always helping others as she so often helped her children.
Peggy loved to travel when given the opportunity. Traveling to St. Kitts with the "clan", Cruising to the Caribbean and vacationing in Florida were among her favorites. Peggy also loved to sit and play penny slots at the Casino and at times, winning thousands of Pennies!

Peggy did not want a funeral with a Casket to gaze at, but instead chose to have a Celebration of Life with family and friends, singing and laughing, remembering when she was vibrant and healthy. Peggy did not like to be the center of attention though her smile and kindness always gave her away. 
The family will be determining a future Celebration of Life in the Spring when the Sun is warm and the Flowers are in bloom, at a later date, most likely in Darien NY. The family will be having an open house on Sunday, January 28, 2024 for any friends and family who wish to visit the family all day at her home. All will be welcome. DeKalb Funeral Chapel is honored to care for the Bontrager family.

Shirley A. Hulburt

By T.J. Woodward
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Shirley A. Hulburt, 84, of Batavia passed away on Thursday January 25, 2024 with family by her side. She was born in Batavia on June 29, 1939 to the late Leslie and Minnie (Reiss) Robinson. In addition to her parents, Shirley is predeceased by her daughter; Kelly Hulburt. 

She is survived by her daughter; Vicki Hulburt; granddaughters Cali Gibson, Sarah (fiancé Briana Coogan-Bassett) Hulburt-Emerson and Elizabeth (fiancé Chase Hughes) Hulburt-Emerson; great-grandchildren William Gibson, Kira Gibson, Leo Diaz, Isaiah Emerson and Elliott Hughes. 

Rarely does there come a person who is so open to how time changes the world and the people in it. The sorrow concerning our loss of her reminds us of how accepting and loving she was. We and the world were so lucky to have her while we did. She will be extremely missed. 

There will be no prior calling hours. Family and friends are invited to attend an 11:00AM Funeral Service on Tuesday January 30, 2024 at St. Paul Lutheran Church 31 Washington Ave. Batavia, NY 14020. Shirley will be laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery in Batavia.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church. 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.

Patricia "Pat" Lewis

By Joshua Smith
Lewis

Kennedy - Patricia  "Pat" J.  Lewis, 80, of Kennedy, New York, passed away on Wednesday, January 24, 2024.

Patricia was born on Sunday, February 21, 1943 in Batavia, New York, a daughter of the late Lamont Dills and Clara (Squires) Dills.

Patricia married Wilbur Lewis in Towson, Maryland on September 29, 1960, enjoying 63 years of marriage.

Pat was employed as a bus driver for the Charles Bus Company in East Aurora, retiring in 2020. She enjoyed camping, playing bingo, and traveling by train with her husband.

Surviving are her husband of 63 years, Wilbur Lewis; children, David (Laura) Lewis of Columbus, Ohio, Valerie (Francis) Krawczyk of Alden, and William (Lissa) Lewis of Concord, Massachusetts; grandchildren, Elizabeth, Stacy Kempf, Steven (Christine) Krawczyk, Lucas (Dana Cridland) Krawczyk, Tyler Krawczyk. Michael Lewis, and Liberty Lewis; five great-grandchildren; siblings, Nancy (Steven) Rankin of Spencerport, Robert (Betty) Dills of Slaton, Texas, Gary (Myrna) Dills of Batavia, Douglas (Maureen) Dills of Darien, and James Dills of Bradford, Pennsylvania; and nieces and nephews.

Pat was preceded in death by her parents, and her late brothers, John (Shirley of Pavilion) Dills, and Lawrence Dills.

Family and friends are invited to call on Monday, January 29th, 2024, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street Batavia, NY.  Pat's funeral service will be held immediately following calling hours at H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street Batavia, NY, with burial to follow at East Bethany Cemetery in East Bethany, NY.

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

Mrs. Linda L. Call

By Joshua Smith
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Stafford – Mrs. Linda L. Call, age 78, of Stafford, passed away on Sunday, January 21, 2024 at her home surrounded by her family. Linda was born on February 14, 1945 in Batavia, a daughter of the late LaVerne Fuller and Barbara Gruner Fuller.

A lifelong member and warden at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Stafford, Linda graduated from SUNY Morrisville and the University of Maine at Orono with a Bachelor’s Degree in Food and Nutrition. A member of the Stafford Garden Club and Landmark Society of Genesee County, she also served as president of the Stafford Historical Society.

She is survived by her husband, Gerald G. Call whom she married on September 22, 2006; her children, Michael Blythe of Spokane, Washington, David (Brenda) Blythe of Brookings, Oregon, Amy (late Garth) Swanson of Stafford and Matthew (Aimee) Blythe of Spokane, Washington; step-children, Erin (Jay Frink) Call of Westerly, Rhode Island, Robert (Jeannine) Call of East Aurora and James (Stephanie) Call of Stafford; grandchildren, Wendell and Gaelen Fink, Samantha and Nicholas Call, Aidan and Anna Call, Ethan and Brooklyn Blythe, Rebecka Blythe, Anders, Beckett and Cooper Swanson, Jesse, Grace and David Blythe; her sister, Sandra (late John) Swanson of Stafford, her brother, Wirt (Patricia) Fuller of Batavia; her mother-in-law, Lois (John Swartz) Call of Batavia and several nieces and nephews.

Linda loved a challenge and adventure, so in the mid 70’s she took a trip to California to visit family and instantly fell in love with the Pacific Northwest; settling in Oregon for the next 20 years before returning home in the 90’s.  While in Portland, she worked for the Parry Center for Emotionally Disturbed Children. She ultimately retired from the NYS VA in Batavia.  

Linda found true love, a partner and confidant when she married Gerald.  She adored the extended family their marriage gave her.  Together they crisscrossed the country, having adventures, visiting family and friends, and making memories at every turn.  Their love made the hard time bearable and together they could get through anything.

Whether it was weeding or planting in her garden, Linda enjoyed working hard to make beautiful things grow.  She was known for making beautiful as well as delicious pies for her family, friends, or Historical Society auctions.  But for Linda, her true joy was spending time with her grandchildren.  She reveled in their accomplishments, and she was so proud of the wonderful young adults they were becoming.  From baby snuggles to big kid hugs, she always had a smile on her face when they were around.  

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, February 3rd  from 11:30 am to 1 pm at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 6188 Main Road, Stafford. Linda’s memorial services will immediately follow visitation at 1 pm. She will be laid to rest in Stafford Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations in her name to St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 786, Stafford, New York 14143, Stafford Fire Department, P.O. Box 56, Stafford New York 14143 or Stafford Historical Society, P.O. Box 28, Stafford New York 14143. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Linda are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia.

Jerry D. Clark

By LaVern Falcone

Churchville ~ Jerry D. Clark, age 80, passed away Sunday, January 21, 2024. 

     He was born October 8, 1943 in Henderson, Texas.  Jerry was the son of the late Roy and Ruby (Walton) Clark.     

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 Jerry joined the US Marine Corps at age 17.  He settled in NY after his discharge and spent the rest of his life here. Jerry was a kind, caring man who would give you the shirt off his back.  He was a cat lover, rifle enthusiast, expert wood whittler and loved to play cards. 

     Jerry will be missed by his family including his niece, Erica (Ian) Jermy, great-niece, Erica Marciano, his sisters-in-law, Loretta Vosburgh and Jennie Carter; his brother, Steve (Paula) Clark, sister-in-law, Diane Clark, nephews, Brent Clark, Scott Clark, Bobby Joe Clark, Chad Clark, Rance Castellari, Greg Stewart; nieces, RanaLynn Castellari and Kathy Stewart; great-niece, Sophia Jermy and great-great-nephew, Nathan Marciano. 

     Jerry was predeceased by two great loves; his companion, Kim McGiveron and his wife of 50 years, RoseMarie (Fiorella) Clark.  He was also predeceased by his brother, Joe and his sister, Karen. 

     Jerry’s family will honor his memory privately, finding comfort together. In lieu of flowers, please make a memorial donation to Keller’s Kat Rescue, 62 Gorton Ave, Hilton, NY 14468. 

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

Ann Urbaniak Chmielowiec

By Ronald Konieczny
Chmielowiec, Ann

Ann Urbaniak Chmielowiec, 97 of Batavia, passed away Monday (January 22, 2023) at her residence.

She was born February 17, 1926 in Fogelsville, PA, a daughter of the late Stephen and Mary Graff Skrapits. Preceding her in death were her sisters, (twin) Pauline Reiter, Mary Robb; brothers Stephan Skrapits, Joseph Skrapits and Frank Skrapits.

She married Edwin M. Urbaniak on March 2, 1945 and he passed away in 1983. She then married Ray Chmielowiec on July 13, 1990 and he passed away in 1995.

Ann was a member of Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph) where she was a Eucharistic Minister and member of its Sodality.  She was unwavering in her faith and attributed prayer, healthy eating, exercising and socializing with friends to her longevity. An avid Buffalo Bills fan, she and Eddie were season ticket holders for many years. She was also known for her delicious pies and cookies.

Ann is survived by her son, Edwin Daniel Urbaniak of Batavia; her daughter Janis Wiggans (Dale) of Greenville, SC; step-grandchildren Kent Wiggans of Phoenix, AZ, Michelle Suitor (Paul) of Salt Lake City, Utah and many nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior visitation. Family and friends are cordially invited to share in her Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday (January 27th), 9:30am at Resurrection Parish, 303 E. Main St., Batavia, NY. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Ann’s name to the American Heart Association. 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.

 

 

Mary Lois (Canfield) Caruthers

By LaVern Falcone

Mary Lois (Canfield) Caruthers, 90, passed away peacefully at home in Mulberry, Fl. with her family on Sunday, January 21, 2024. Born in LeRoy, NY to Sarah Fagan and Edward Criger. Mary loved her home in Florida and enjoyed being a snowbird coming to New York in the summer to spend time with family and friends.   

Mary Lois

  Mary had many nicknames, in LeRoy, NY, she was known as “Mikey” and in Mulberry, FL., she was known as Miss Mary. Whether Mary was in NY or Florida, she was well loved by all. She was known for her fashion sense, her kindness and her great sense of humor. She liked to have a good time and enjoyed Happy Hour with friends and family.

     Mary lived a beautiful life. She worked at the LeRoy pharmacy for many years, then retired. She loved to spend the summers at our family camp in Stillwater Reservoir in the Adirondacks. Then, when it started to get cold up north, her husband, Bo and her would head home to Florida. They loved to sit in their carport and watch what was going on and often had loving neighbors stop over to hang awhile.

     Mary had many adopted children as all our friends wanted to claim her as their own. For the last five years, her loving son, Richard stayed with Mary so she could be in her home.

     Mary was an extremely loving and caring mother and wife. And a very proud grandmother. She is survived by her children; Donna Friedman (Bill), Richard Canfield, Susan LaVallee (Glen), as well as her many loving grandchildren, great grandchildren, extended family, friends and her beloved dog, Molly. She was predeceased by her first husband, Gordon Canfield and also predeceased by her second husband, Bo Caruthers, Sr. She was predeceased by her daughters Sharon Wilkerson (John) and Barbara Ellingham.

     Family Services will be held at a later date in LeRoy, NY. A memorial service will be held in Mulberry, FL at the American Legion, Post 72, 1500 N. Church Ave. on January 25, 2024 at 3:00 PM. Memorial donations may be made to ASPCA and/or The American Legion, Post 72.

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

James E. McClurg

By T.J. Woodward
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James E. “Jim” McClurg, age 68, of Elba went home to his Lord and Savior on January 20, 2024. He was born on November 5, 1955 to the late Everett and Ethel (Weidrich) McClurg. 

Jim was a graduate of Oakfield-Alabama School where he enjoyed cross country running. He was a truck driver for Tyler Trucking and then UPS, where he was working at the time of his retirement. He greatly enjoyed being outdoors, feeding the birds and squirrels and watching deer, fox and other wildlife in the backyard. His greatest joy was attending church and spending time with loved ones. Jim was a man of great faith and looked to God for guidance, strength and comfort in all circumstances. 

Jim is the beloved husband of Catherine McClurg whom he married on September 20, 2014. He is also survived by his children; Allison (Steven) Brill and Jeremy (Susan) McClurg; grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Also survived by his sister Bette (Carl) Koch; mother-in- law Alice (late Joseph) Ohl, along with a large extended family. 

Jim will be greatly missed by all those who loved him. We take comfort in knowing he is safe and at peace in the loving arms of Jesus and will be reunited with him in heaven. 

Jim’s Memorial Service will be officiated by Pastor Vern Saile and Pastor John Keller on Saturday March 2, 2024 at 11:30AM at Northgate Free Methodist Church 8160 Bank St. Rd. Batavia, NY 14020. An informal reception will immediately follow at the church. Jim’s service will be livestreamed on the church’s Facebook page which can be found on their website www.northgatefmc.com 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude’s Children Hospital www.stjude.org or Northgate Free Methodist Church or 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, NY 14020.

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