Obituaries

Herbert Hammond, 95, of Batavia passed away on May 6, 2025 at the United Memorial Medical Center. He was born in Bell Island, Newfoundland, Canada on June 16, 1929 to the late Eli and Ethel (Picco) Hammond. In addition to his parents, Herbert is predeceased by his wife; Lucy Hammond; daughter Paula Hammond and brothers William and Merril Hammond. 

Herbert worked as a Miner on Bell Island. He was a Merchant Sailor on the Great Lakes and ended up coming to the United States with his family when the mine closed. He then worked for Canada Dry in College Point, NY for 30 years. 

He is survived by his children; Gary (Birgitt) Hammond of Corfu and Glenn (Patricia) Hammond of Batavia; sisters Hazel Hammond and Marie Skanes; 7 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild, along with many nieces and nephews. 

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday May 14, 2025 from 10:30AM-12:30PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, NY 14020. A 1:00PM Funeral Service will follow at St James Episcopal Church 405 E. Main St. in Batavia. Herbert will be laid to rest in Grandview Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gateway Home in Attica.  For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to sign a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

Pandora L. Henning of Attica, age 69, peacefully passed away on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, in Attica, NY. A cherished resident of this community, Pandora was a beloved sister, aunt, and friend.

Pandora was born on August 13, 1955, in Warsaw, New York. A daughter of the late Ronald F. and June (Wilson) Henning.

Pandora had a special affection for old TV shows, a pastime that brought her joy and comfort over the years. She found a deep connection with the nostalgia of classic television, which often sparked lively conversations and joyous reflections with those around her.

Pandora is survived by her brother, Kenneth Henning, and his wife, Christine, and her sister, Paula Schaefer, and her husband, Richard. She was a loving aunt to many nieces and nephews, who will remember her warmth, humor, and the love she shared with all. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Eric Henning and Ronald Henning, who are fondly remembered in the hearts of their family and friends.

Arrangements for Pandora are under the compassionate care and direction of Marley Funeral Home. At the wishes of the family there will be no calling hours or services.

In loving memory of Pandora L. Henning—a woman of warmth and humor who will be deeply missed and forever cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing her.

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

Joseph M. Morelli, of Oakfield, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5th, 2025, at the age of 56. Born on December 29th, 1968, in Batavia, to the late Joseph and Mayme Ferrari Morelli.

He dedicated much of his life to his craft as a skilled carpenter, working most recently for 34 Group, Inc. in Buffalo. He found immense joy in hunting, fishing, cooking, and training dogs. He was truly considered a joker by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is survived by his sisters, Cynthia Morelli and Angela, along with her husband Peter Fogg and their two children Christina and Peter Junior; two great nephews, Duncan and Mark Fogg; his daughters, Dana Morelli and Sabrina Morelli; along with several cousins.

In accordance with Joseph’s wishes, there will be no prior calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of his family. Those who wish to honor Joseph's life may make donations to the Morelli family. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his name, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home. 11 Maple Avenue, Oakfield.

Robert L. Ehmann of Batavia, age 100, passed away on May 5, 2025 at The New York State Veterans Home of Batavia.

He was born May 8, 1924 in Buffalo, a son of the late Henry and Hazel (Lee) Ehmann.

Robert loved the outdoors. He was a member of Godfrey’s Pond and took pleasure in gardening, working outdoors, and shooting at the range. During his years residing at home, he took great pleasure in his daily walks and was a well-known and warmly regarded presence in his neighborhood. Whether on television or in a book, he enjoyed a good mystery story, but above all he valued spending time with his family.

As a 18-year-old drill press operator, Robert enlisted in the ARMY on November 10, 1942, where he underwent training with Company C, 5 th Signal Battalion for 10 months and 29 days. He departed for the European theatre of operation on June 16, 1944 and landed at Normandy Beach on D+24, June 30 1944. After serving 1 year, 9 months, and 32 days, participating in the Rhineland Central Europe campaign, private first class, Robert Ehmann returned to the United States on March 9, 1946. Serving a total of 3 years, 5 months, and 13 days. A highly decorated warrior, PFC Robert Ehmann received the European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, and Good conduct Medal.

Survivors include his siblings, David (Marlene) Ehmann and Andrea Ehmann; grandchildren, Julie (Ken) Henry and Robert (Tricia) Ehmann; great grandchildren, Nathan Henry, Noah (Ariana) Henry, Victoria Ehmann, and Andrew Ehmann: daughter-in-law, Patricia Ehmann, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

In death Robert is reunited with the love of his life, Eleanor Ehmann; son, James Ehmann; parents, Henry and Hazel (Lee) Ehmann.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home. There will be no calling hours or services. Burial will be at the convenience of the family in Evergreen Hill Cemetery, Corfu.

In Lieu of flowers donations may be made to: Arthritis Foundation, P.O. Box 96280 Washington,
DC 20077.

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

Raymond Martin Stone, 86, died peacefully on February 18, 2025, after a short illness. 

Raymond was born on April 21, 1938, to John and Marie (née Stepien) Stone in Buffalo, NY. He graduated from Depew High School in 1955 and earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and an M.S. in Chemistry from the University of Rochester. He later settled in Rochester where he worked at Kodak for several years and then retired in 2001 from the United States Postal Service after 27 years of service.

Raymond had a lifelong passion for stamp collecting, as evidenced by over 50 years of active membership in the Rochester Philatelic Association. Additionally, he was an active member of St. Cecilia Church and the Boy Scouts of America.

He is survived by siblings, Ruth (David) Robinson of Cape Vincent and Roger (Mary Ann) Stone of Batavia; children, Sharon Stahoviak, R. Joseph (Kirsten) Stone, and Christine Miller; grandchildren, Erin (Evan) Gwyn, Emma and Savannah Stahoviak, and Jamison, Jack, and Claire Weber; great-grandchildren, Wyatt and Rory Gwyn; numerous cousins; and the mother of his children, Kathleen Morse. He also leaves behind many friends whose lives were touched by his presence. 

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 29 at Episcopal Church Home (505 Mount Hope Avenue, Rochester, 14620), with a reception to follow in the gathering space; private interment at a later date.

Harold F. Nickson “Nick”, age 102, of Oakfield, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 5, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center.

He was born February 9, 1923 in Preston, England, a son of the late William and May Nickson.

Growing up in England, soccer was a big part of Nick’s life. He played professionally for soccer clubs in England, one of them being Winchester. After serving in the Royal Navy during World War II, Nick emigrated from England to the United States and moved to California where he became a butler for a few famous people and met Clark Gable. But soccer was still a huge part of his persona and he played soccer and cricket for some clubs in California and was also asked to play for a team in Mexico.

He eventually settled down and moved to New York. Here he would build his own home in Bedford Hills and raise a family. He became a plant superintendent for the Bedford Hills Correctional Facility, where he would retire from. He was also a member of the Bedford Hills Fire Department for over 40 years and watched his son and grandson become Fire Chiefs. Nick enjoyed playing golf, playing soccer, fishing and watching Premier League Soccer on TV. Nick will be missed for his kindness to all, telling stories of his past and known for never complaining or criticizing anyone.

Survivors include his wife, Linda Nickson. Son William (Robin) Nickson. Grandson, Jason (Sarah) Nickson. Step-son, Michael (Rebecca) Cherry and their children, Benjamin (Alicia Rohan) Cherry and Jessica Cherry. Also survived by nieces and nephews.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

John E. Shipley, 79 of Batavia, NY passed away peacefully on Tuesday, May 6, 2025 at United Memorial Medical Center, Batavia, NY.

He was born April 15, 1946 in Lockport, NY, a son of the late Edward and Mary Cramer Shipley.

John was employed by Batavia Metal Products and Graham Manufacturing prior to his retirement. Throughout his life, he enjoyed marching with the Mighty St. Joe’s Drum Corps and with the Rochester Crusaders. He also loved attending drum corps competitions with his family. Over the years, he attended many Buffalo Bills football games with his family and was a huge fan of Notre Dame football. He loved spending time with his family and his little dog Bella. 

His passion was video recording and photographing memories of his family and loved ones for them to cherish for years to come. He also loved video recording many drum corps competitions and football games. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his beloved high school sweetheart and loving wife, Diane (Falcone) Shipley of Batavia. Sons, David (Shannon) Shipley of Tennessee, John Shipley and his significant other, Deanna Duff of Corfu, NY. Grandchildren, Matthew Shipley and Sara Shipley, Priscilla Viramontes and Jonathan Knight. Great-grandson, Weston Takacs. Sister in-law, Jan Shipley. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. 

He was the brother of the late Edward U. Shipley, Jr.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share condolences and fond memories on Tuesday (May 13^th) from 4-7pm at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, NY, where a service will commence at 7pm. Interment will be held privately in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name can be offered to St. Jude Children’s Hospital. 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.

Charles James Flagg passed away on 4/23/2025. Better known as Charlie or Chuck is survived by his sons Christopher Flagg and Matthew Flagg, and his Grandsons Matthew Z., Jackzin, and Ethan Flagg, his brothers Harry Mack and Jimmy Mack. He was preceded in death by his sister, Susan Flagg.

Charlie fought till the end. We will remember Charlie forever as a loving father, talented artist, and local politician. Charlie has over 15,000 pieces of artwork all around the US and abroad. Charlie has had articles written about him in the New Yorker and Playboy magazine. 

His pride for his town, friends, and family is what kept Charlie inspired.

Charlie loved his community and was a councilman for Darien. Charlie’s murals and paintings will keep his spirit alive. You are deeply missed, Charlie. 

There will be a Celebration of Life gathering at Pembroke Town Park on May 31, 2025, starting at 1 pm. All are welcome, please bring a story to tell. Snacks will be provided. Some of Charlie's artwork will be on display.

Sandra Kay Hall, age 75, passed away on Monday, May 5, 2025 at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing.

She was born April 20, 1950 in Batavia, a daughter of the late Wilbur and Wilma (Etzold) Hall.

She graduated from Pembroke High School where she returned to teach Junior and Senior High Math for 32 years.

She enjoyed reading, collecting quotes, trips to the casino and traveling especially to see the homes of the United States Presidents with her mother.

Surviving are her niece, Kimberly Florian; her nephew, Derek Hall and her great-nephew Brandon Florian.

She is predeceased by her brothers, Richard Hall and Clarence Hall (C Jay).

Friends may call from 4 pm to 6 pm on Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Funeral services will immediately follow visitation at 6 pm at the funeral home. She will be laid to rest in Evergreen Lawn Cemetery, Akron. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Peter A. Scalia- Batavia NY/ Chattanooga TN: It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Peter A. Scalia, a beloved husband, father and grandfather, who was born on January 24, 1956 in Batavia, NY and passed away at his home in Chattanooga, TN on April 30, 2025. His family was by his side as he left this world.

Pete was predeceased by his father Anthony P. Scalia Sr., son Peter A. Scalia Jr., mother-in-law Deloris Hanrahan and brother-in-law Richard Hendershott.

Left to cherish Pete’s memory are: his loving wife Nancy (Baker) Scalia; mother Julia (Peca) Scalia; son Jason (Lexie) Scalia; siblings Deborah (Richard) Seymour, Anthony (Ann Marie) Scalia Jr., and John (Kathy) Scalia; sisters-in-law Barbara (Donald) Bullock and Deborah Hendershott; grandchildren Kassandra (Brandon) Cutitta, Samantha Scalia, Benelli Scalia and Ruger Scalia; his best friend and cousin John (Deborah) Peca; many beloved nieces, cousins and friends.

Pete graduated in 1974 from Batavia HS. He started his career as a plumber working for his Dad and then spent the last 23 years of his career at Batavia Housing Authority, retiring in 2012.

Pete was a car lover from an early age. His first car was a blue GTO, and then he moved on to Corvettes which became a lifelong passion. You always knew where he and the guys were for breakfast when you saw their Vettes.

Pete was a proud 15-year member of the Batavia Lion’s club. He was very enthusiastic about the Vision Program and for many years he was part of the team to test young children’s eyesight.

Services are under the care and direction of H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. There will be no calling hours. A funeral mass for Pete will be held at Resurrection Parish, St. Joseph’s worship site, 303 East Main Street, Batavia on June 12, 2025 at 9:30am with burial to follow at St. Joseph’s Mausoleum, Batavia. The Family invites everyone to Terry Hills, 5122 Clinton Street Road, Batavia, for a Celebration of Life Luncheon immediately following entombment.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Pete’s name to the Batavia Lions Club, PO Box 456, Batavia, NY 14020.

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

Martin Donald Brooks - January 6, 1952 - May 3, 2025

Martin Donald Brooks, 73, of Duxbury, Vermont died peacefully after a long battle with cancer, on May 3, 2025 in his home under the shadow of his beloved Camels Hump Mountain. Marty was born January 6, 1952 the son of Donald and the late Corinne (Wilterberger) Brooks and grew up on farms in Alexander and Attica, New York.

He is survived by his wife Susan (McKernan) Brooks, his son Scott and wife Amy of Duxbury, VT., his daughter Erin Dente and husband Kevin of Hinesburg VT., his daughter Sandra Moulton and her husband Jeffrey of Georgia, VT. His eight grandchildren were his greatest pride and joy; Grace, Clay, Cailin, Addison, Sophia, Jameson, Gabriella, and Marion. Marty is also survived by his father Donald Brooks and his siblings Evelyn “Peach” Merrill, Donna Bagg, Morris Brooks, Terry Saluste, and Kerry “the ultimate aunt” Brooks. He was predeceased by his mother Corinne Brooks, his brother Lynn Brooks, and his daughter Kelly Brooks.

Marty graduated from Attica Central High School going on to earn an Associates Degree at Alfred State College. Over the years he made many friends at various jobs, retiring from Pizzagalli Construction Company in Burlington where he worked as an estimator. His hobbies included racquetball, chess, officiating and playing soccer, and woodworking. Early in his career he was a model builder for United Scale Models where he erected prototypes of large construction projects, a job he dearly loved.

After moving to Duxbury, Marty became the “Go-To-Guy” of the neighborhood. When friends and neighbors mentioned a project that they were considering, he would jump into action saying, “Well, let’s go do it!” Without waiting for a response, he would grab his tools, jump onto his tractor, or hop into his truck and be on his way. His house on Scrabble Hill has been refurbished top to bottom, inside and out by his nimble hands and unwavering determination. He spent many hours felling trees, milling lumber, and cutting and splitting the firewood needed to heat his home and hot water. Marty’s death leaves a hole in many hearts, but he leaves many monuments behind, giving testament to his generous heart and willing hands.

A Service will be held on Saturday, May 10, 2025. The service will begin at 1:00pm at Waterbury Congregational Church, 8 North Main Street, Waterbury, Vermont 05676. A reception will be held in the church dining room immediately following the service. Memorial donations may be made to Central Vermont Home Health and Hospice by visiting https://www.cvhhh.org/donate/donate-to-cvhhh/ .

Joseph S. Dispenza, 86, of Batavia passed away on Monday May 5, 2025. He was born on October 29, 1938 in Batavia to the late Samuel and Esther (Cucuzzo) Dispenza. In addition to his parents, Joe is predeceased by his sisters; Frances J. Dispenza Miller and Angela Dispenza. 

Joe was a United States Army Veteran. He worked for many years at Delco in Rochester. He enjoyed golfing, going to garage sales and loved his cars. Joe enjoyed spending time with his family. 

He is survived by his niece; Melissa (Chris) Haacke of Oakfield; cousins Mary Louise Fridmann and Ken (Lisa) Fridmann; great nieces Emma Haacke and Lily Haacke, along with several other cousins.  

There will be no prior calling hours. Friends and family are invited A 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Monday May 12^th, 2025 at Resurrection Parish 303 East Main St. in Batavia. Joseph will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorial mat be made to Resurrection Parish 303 E. Main St. in Batavia. For more information please call (585) 343-8260 or to sign a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com.  Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

July 17, 1952 –April 17, 2025

Johnny (John) Morris a longtime resident of Batavia, NY, and most recently from Alden, NY, passed away peacefully on April 17, 2025, at the age of 72.

Born on July 17, 1952, John was a respected member of his community. He served for many years as a superintendent of the City of Batavia, where he was known for his dedication, integrity, and strong work ethic.

John had a passion for old western movies and playing his guitar. His love for music and stories of the Old West reflected his own down-to-earth spirit and appreciation for tradition. 

He was predeceased by his first wife, Patricia “Patty” (Ashton) Morris, and his beloved wife, Carol Ann (Eisele) Morris. Their love and memory remain close to his heart throughout his life. John is survived by his daughter Alison (Chris) Avino and Heather Martin, along with two grandchildren, all of Batavia.

John’s legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be remembered for his kind heart, his steady presence, and his love for simple pleasures.

Stafford ~ Stephen R. McQuillen, Sr. (Steve) died peacefully at home on May 1^st, 2025 surrounded by his loved ones.

     He was born February 18, 1954, in Batavia, the son of the late Robert and Margaret “Peg” Chambers McQuillen. 

     If you knew Steve, you knew of his love for racing, tractor pulls, snowmobiles, or anything that had an engine. He was always tinkering in his shops, whether on his numerous different drag cars, Merc sleds or tractor-pulling tractors.     

 Steve is survived by his loving wife Sheila; daughter Stephanie (James) Call; step-children Shawn (Marie) Bigsby, Nicole (Andy) Calletto, Eric (Shannon) Ball; grandchildren Samantha Call, Nicholas Call, Joshua McQuillen, Jenna McQuillen, Emma Bigsby, Brock Bigsby, Ryan Bigsby, Aaden Calletto, Sam Calletto; siblings Patricia Daansen (late Dave Daansen), Mary Lynn (Richard) Jacko, Peter (Judy) McQuillen, Timothy (Sue) McQuillen, Amy (Jeff) Sturm, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and friends, including his best buds Jim Pixley and Mike Kemnitz.

     Steve was predeceased by his brother Terry (“Tuba”); sons Gregg and Stephen Jr (Mack); aunt Dottie McQuillen; brother-in-law Burt Bigsby; sister-in-law Deb Merkle, and his beloved dog, Glitter Sophia.

     Family and friends may call on Friday, May 16, 2025, from 4-7 p.m. at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Services, Inc., 8700 Lake Street Road, Le Roy, NY. His Rite of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake Street, Le Roy, NY.  In honor of Steve, all are welcome and encouraged to show up in your hot rods.

     In lieu of flowers, be kind to others. 

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

William J. Waldruff passed away on April 22, 2025.

Born September 20th, 1939, Bill was the son of the late Irene and Leo Waldruff of Potsdam, NY.  Bill graduated from high school in 1957 and SUNY Canton ATC in 1960 with an Associate's Degree in Business Management. He was a veteran, serving 8 ½ years of active duty and attaining the rank of Sergeant. While working at Kinney Drug Store in Potsdam, he saw Anne Fisher when she walked into the store and asked a friend to arrange a blind date.  That blind date led to marriage in 1960 and continued for another 64 years until Anne passed away on June 19, 2024.

In 1960, Bill was employed as an accountant by St. Regis Paper Company in Deferiet, New York. In 1968, he was offered a job at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York, where he could further his education at RIT, so Anne and Bill moved the family to Bergen, NY where they stayed for 57 years. In 1972 while working for Kodak, he earned his BS degree in Business Administration.

Bill was offered early retirement after 25 years with Kodak. He volunteered with Habitat for Humanity and served on the church relations and construction committees. Bill was also an AARP Income Tax Volunteer for 12 years and served on the Town of Bergen Zoning Board of Appeals for 16 years, part of that time as chairman. Bill served as the District Boy Scout Training Chairperson, Bill and Anne also received the District Award of Merit for their service. Bill and Anne were active in their churches for over 50 years and volunteered their time at many other non-profit organizations.  They loved the Lord and were thankful for their wonderful lives.

Bill is survived by sons James (Diana) Waldruff of Avon; Brian (Kathy) Waldruff of Byron; daughter Karen Yount of Palm Harbor, Florida; granddaughter Emily Waldruff of Avon; Sisters Mary (Tom Sikora) Waldruff of Malden, Massachusetts and Helen Waldruff of Andover, Massachusetts; along with several brothers and sisters in law, and nieces and nephews.

Friends and family are invited to Bill's celebration of life at 11:00 am on May 15, 2025 at the Bergen  United Methodist Church, 27 South Lake Avenue, Bergen NY 14416. Burial will be private at the convenience of the family.

In Lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Bergen Methodist Church: 27 South Lake Avenue, Bergen NY 14416 or the Alzheimer’s Association: 6400 Sheridan Dr #320, Buffalo, NY 14221.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of H.E. Turner & Co., Inc Funeral Home. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com