Obituaries

MICHAEL REID WOODWARD

Never one to overstay his welcome, “Big Mike/Woody” went to the great duck blind in the sky on July 11, 2023 at his home, nary a week after celebrating his 77^th birthday alongside his family and the swapping out of his beloved recliner. 

He was born July 5, 1946 to the late Earl (“Woody”) and Agnes (“Bunny”) (Thompson) Woodward. Born in Rochester, NY, Mike spent his formative years mopping the barroom at his family’s restaurant and residence, the Alabama Hotel. A graduate of Oakfield Alabama, Mike proudly attended Michigan State University and was a member of the 1966 Spartans National Championship and Rose Bowl attendee football team. He then spent four years in the Navy in San Diego in a specialized deep-sea submarine rescue unit coordinating with legendary explorer Jacques Cousteau, before returning home after his dad’s passing to help with the family business and propose (again) to his wife of 51 years, Bonnie. 

Mike worked tirelessly and held various leadership roles during his 35-year tenure with IDS, American Express Financial Advisors and retired as a Senior Vice President of Ameriprise Financial, making lifetime friendships. At one time, he supervised half of the nation’s financial advisors and field managers.  He was lucky to travel the world with his wife and often his kids in tow, all the while hoarding his Marriott hotel points and mini shampoos. When he was in town, you wouldn’t be able to miss him at one of his kid’s sports games, cheering on the OA Hornets or making his own parking spot in the endzone. Once he hung up his briefcase in retirement, he took up coupon clipping and perfecting his tuna sammich recipe. 

His love of the outdoors was instilled by his dad and brothers at an early age. Mike was an Eagle Scout and avid sportsman, enthusiastic about fishing and hunting given any spare moment. He was a member of the Oakfield Rod & Gun Club, VFW, American Legion, OA Sports Boosters, OA Lions Club and OA Dollars for Scholars. Mike was dedicated to conservation efforts and was a board member for New York Ducks Unlimited, Ducks Unlimited, Inc., DU Canada, and DU Mexico. Most notably, Mike led the national DU board’s Development Committee as Senior Vice President of Development, leading the charge to raise over $2.34 Billion for wetlands conservation, and as he liked to say “it’s for the ducks”. His collection of their auction items and duffel bag swag would certainly rival any member. 

Mike’s legacy and love of peanut butter cups will live on through his surviving family including his devoted wife, Bonnie S. (Schroeder) Woodward of Oakfield, children Jennifer Woodward, Mark (Michelle) Woodward of Oakfield, Kyle (Stephanie Wirth) Woodward of Old Greenwich, CT, Eric (Jessica Alexyn) Woodward of Oakfield, Stephanie (Patrick) Maloney of Rehoboth, MA, Karie (Robert) Credi of Rochester, Reice Woodward of Oakfield, Lakin Woodward of Oakfield; sister, Sharon (Frederick) O’Toole of Lyons, and brother, Timothy (Maria) Woodward of Batavia. He was the extremely proud Grandpa to Paige Hickenbottom, Alison, Michael, Leah, Cameron, and Eve Woodward, Conor Maloney, and Xavier Credi, and is survived by many beloved nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his brother Patrick J. Woodward and sister Ellen Woodward.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any memorial contributions be made toward the Mike Woodward Conservation Legacy tribute, which is a major effort already underway by Ducks Unlimited, with a goal of raising $2.5 million dollars in Mike’s honor. Donations should be made payable to “Ducks Unlimited” at 219 E. Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020 or Ducks Unlimited

Friends are invited to call on Friday, July 14, 2023 from 4 to 8 pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. An 11 am Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 at St. Padre Pio Parish, 56 Maple Ave, Oakfield, NY 14125. He will be laid to rest with Military Honors in St. Cecilia’s Cemetery, Oakfield.

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

Robert G. Hawkins, 89 of Attica, passed away peacefully surrounded by family at his daughters home in LeRoy. He was born in Addison, NY to the late Elmer and Madge (Shumway) Hawkins. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Phyllis (Stuart) Hawkins, a son Bruce Hawkins, brothers, William and James Hawkins.

Robert retired as a Sergeant from Wyoming Correctional Facility in Attica. He enjoyed playing cards with his wife and spending time with his family. Robert was a man of great faith and member of Immanuel United Church of Christ in Orangeville and member of Masonic West Star Lodge #413 in Varysburg. 

He is survived by his children, Robert Hawkins of Attica, Patricia (Thomas) Fernaays of LeRoy, Stuart (Lori) Hawkins of Tombstone, AZ, Sue (Jeff Hauger) Hawkins of Attica, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. 

Friends are invited to call on Monday, July 17, 2023 from 11am to 1pm at Immanuel United Church of Christ, 2165 Exchange St, Attica, NY 14011. A Celebration of his Life will immediately follow at 1:00pm at the church. He will be laid to rest in Forest Hill Cemetery, Attica, NY 14011.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the church, P.O. Box 144, Attica, NY 14011 or to Attica Fire Department Ladies Auxiliary, 11 Water St, Attica, NY 14011. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.marleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Marley Funeral Home, LLC, 135 Main Street, Attica, NY 14011. 

Joshua D. Quaintance, 34 of Bergen, passed away on July 10, 2023, at his home. Joshua leaves behind a loving and devoted wife; Jessica (Mitchell) as well as three wonderful boys: Jaidyn B Joseph (15), Jordyn D John (14) and Jaxyn T Joshua (10). Joshua worked for CY Farms as a truck driver. Josh loved to be outdoors. He enjoyed fishing and looked forward to deer season each year. Joshua was an avid Bill’s fan and loved going to games with his dad. As his children got older, he brought his boys to share in the experience. Joshua enjoyed watching his kids play sports and could be found on the sidelines of every game. His kids would say Daddy made things fun. Joshua loved Jessica with all his heart, she was the twinkle in his eye. Joshua loved to get creative in the kitchen. His boys especially enjoyed taco nights. Joshua had many nieces and nephews that adored him, they would often say, Uncle Joshy was the best. Josh had a heart of gold and made you feel a sense of comfort when in his presence. Whenever you were with him there was sure to be laughter involved. Joshua had a way of making every event fun. He will be greatly missed. 

Joshua is the beloved son of Stanley (Tracy) Quaintance, Jr. of Homosassa, FL and Melinda (Troy) Quaintance of Byron, the son-in law of Randy and Robin Mitchell. He leaves behind is brother Justin Quaintance, his grandfather Stan Quaintance Sr, his grandmother Sue V LeSage. Joshua also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and brother and sister in-laws. Also many cousins, nieces and nephews. Joshua joins three family members that adored and cherished their time with him, his grandfather, Thomas J LeSage, his grandmother Sharon Quaintance and his great grandmother June R Vile. There will be a celebration of Joshua’s life on July 22nd at 3pm at the Bergen Rod and Gun Club. 

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

Arrangements for Joshua were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Bergen, (585) 494-1210.

Carol J. Irwin, 86 of LeRoy, passed away on Thursday, November 24, 2022 at United Memorial Medical Center, surrounded by her family. She was born April 2, 1936 in Batavia, to the late Joseph and Pearl (Wilcox) Demmer. She is preceded in death by her first husband William Lampke, second husband David Irwin, children, William Lampke Sr, JoAnn Miller, Ann Bonham, Amy Weaver, Dale Lampke, siblings, Roger, Richard, Joseph, Kermitt Demmer, Ramona Dudley, Ann Hearse, Shirley Greenman and Marian Kendall.

Mrs. Irwin worked at Angelica for many years. She loved decorating for the holidays and family gatherings. Carol was the best mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

She is survived by her beloved children, Rex (Janet) Lampke of Silver Springs, Margaret (Craig) Hurley of LeRoy, Barbara (John) Vescovi of LeRoy, Steve (Lisa) Lampke of Ithaca, Robin (Mark) Hall of Batavia, Linda Weig of Batavia. Siblings, Janet Mann of WV, Julia (Bruce) Henning of NC, sisters-in-law, Sue Demmer of GA, Carol Demmer of Batavia; along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

There will be no prior calling hours. A 10:00am Graveside Service will take place on Monday, July 17, 2023 at Reed Cemetery, Oakfield. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the family or to LeRoy Ambulance Service, Inc., 1 Tountas Ave, LeRoy, NY 14482. To leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Vernon G. Rupert and Anne E. Rupert

Alexander - Graveside services for Vernon G. Rupert and his beloved wife, Anne E. Rupert, longtime residents of Alexander, will be held Monday, July 17, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Batavia, New York. Vernon passed away March 18, 2020, and Anne passed away May 1, 2023. 

There will be full military honors for Vern who served in the United States Army.

Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be made to the Alexander Volunteer Fire Department, PO Box 336 Alexander, NY 14005.

Arrangements were made by C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., Corfu, New York.
 

Rita M. Rowcliffe, known affectionately as the "Gas Lady," has left us at the age of 88. She was born on February 7, 1935, in Rochester, New York, to her loving parents Gordon Cudney and Etta (Roberts) Cudney. Rita was a woman who dedicated her life to hard work, leaving an indelible mark on the communities she served.

Rita's career was a testament to her commitment and work ethic. For an impressive 33 years, she served faithfully at Rochester Telephone. Her dedication knew no bounds as she continued to work for another 22 years at Batavia Tops Markets as the beloved "Gas Lady." The nickname had become synonymous with Rita, a title that brought warmth and familiarity to all who encountered her. In total, Rita spent an astounding 66 years of her life working tirelessly until she retired at the remarkable age of 86.

Education held great importance for Rita, and she took pride in being a member of the Byron-Bergen Class of 1953. She cherished the friendships formed during those formative years and delighted in reuniting with her classmates each month.

Beyond her professional endeavors and academic achievements, Rita possessed a vibrant spirit filled with diverse interests. She enjoyed trips to the casino where she savored the thrill of chance and fortune. Furthermore, Rita embarked on extraordinary adventures with her late husband on Trailways buses while he worked as a driver.

On July 10, 2023, Rita peacefully passed away in the tender embrace of the Lord. Although our hearts may be heavy with grief, let us remember Rita's remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication throughout her life.

Rita will forever be treasured by those who survive her. She is mourned deeply by her surviving family members: her brother Lyle (late Jane) Cudney of Orchard Park; sisters-in-law Shirley Cudney of Byron and Marlene (late Paul) Cerefin of Batavia. Special nieces Paula (David Renzo) Phillips of Batavia and Sandra (Wayne) Benz of Elba also held a special place in Rita's heart.

Among those who preceded Rita in death were her beloved husband, Richard H. Rowcliffe; and by her siblings: Jean (late John) Bamburowski, Glenn (late Mildred) Cudney, Marjorie (late Paul) Bostwick, Janet (late Paul) Zambito, Virginia (late Charles) Butler, Phyllis Hart, Lee Cudney, and Marilyn (late Richard) Smart.

To honor the life and legacy of Rita, visitation services will be held at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc., 403 E Main Street in Batavia on July 13, 2023 from 3:00 PM until 7:00 PM.

A funeral service will follow the next day on July 14th at the funeral home to pay respects to this remarkable woman who touched the lives of so many. The service will commence at 2:00 PM. 

Those wishing may make a memorial contribution to a charity of the donor's choice.

As we say goodbye to Rita M. Rowcliffe, let us celebrate a life filled with dedication, hard work, and unwavering love for family and friends. May her memory serve as a reminder to us all that through commitment and passion, we can leave an enduring impact on the lives we touch. Rest in peace, dear Rita.

Please share an expression of condolence with Rita's family at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Richard A. Luce, 89 of Corfu, passed away on July 9, 2023 at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia. He was born December 20, 1933 in Buffalo to the late Allan and Florence (Keiser) Luce. He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Ann (Trzaska) Luce, siblings, Kenneth (Patty) Luce, Evelyn (George) Hanel. 

Dick was a proud United States Army Veteran. He retired from General Motors in Rochester. Dick owned horses with Mary Ann that ran harness races, he loved taking care of them and was an avid bettor. He was very athletic and active, enjoying biking, jogging and walking. Dick loved sports, especially the Buffalo Bills.

He is survived by his children, Cheryl (Debbie Maniace) Luce of Batavia, LeeAnn (Brian) Swimline of E. Pembroke, Michael Luce of Medina, step-children, Dan (Jackie) Surdyk of Canandaigua, Carl (Michele) Surdyk of Boston, NY, Lynette (Greg) McGiveron of Basom, Scott (Deb) Sarama of Elkridge, MD, siblings, Sandra (the late Ralph) Richley, Geraldine (the late Jerry) Henry, Jacki (Rudolph) Humel, 15 grandchildren, 4 great-grandchildren, along with many nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to call on Thursday, July 13, 2023 from 4 to 8pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc., 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. An 11:00am Celebration of his Life will take place on Friday, July 14, 2023 at the Funeral Home. He will be laid to rest at St. Adalbert’s Cemetery, Lancaster. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to NYS Veterans Home @ Batavia, Activities Fund, 220 Richmond Ave, Batavia, NY 14020. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc., 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.   

Bernadette (Bernie) A. Meyers Peterson went home to be with the Lord on Saturday July 8, 2023 at the young age of 63 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born in Batavia, a lifetime resident of the surrounding area and spent the majority of her life in manufacturing as well as tending to an oversize garden of green peas and potatoes on the family farm.

Bernie is survived by her life partner John Peterson of Warsaw and his son Jonathan of Alexander. Her siblings: Teresa (late Al) Thorley of Alexander, Jim (Linda) Meyers of East Bethany, Vince (Marie) Meyers of Alexander, Fran (Greg) Michalak of Ashville, Anne (Tom) Vanderbosch of Alexander, Tom (Heather) Meyers of Montezuma and Jen (Joe) Decker of Belmont. Also survived by aunts, and uncles, many nieces and nephews, grandnephews and a plethora of cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Virginia Meyers.

In her final days, Vickie and George Matteson were always there to tend to her needs.

There will be a Celebration of Life at West Middlebury Baptist Church 4950 W Middlebury Road, East Bethany, NY 14054 at 10AM on Saturday July 22, 2023 followed by a gathering from 11AM to 3PM in the church social center.

She will be laid to rest next to her grandmother M. Cecelia Meyers at St. Vincent’s Cemetery in Attica, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Wilmont Cancer Center 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14642 (she received the most wonderful care from Dr. Yirinec and his staff at the Batavia location) or the York Animal Hospital Stray Animal Fund 2275 Main St., York, NY 14592 (who took the best care of her fur babies – Kitty, PK, and Renny). To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Lt Col Todd M. “Sparky” Randall, age 69, of Batavia, NY (formally of Greensburg, PA), passed away Father’s Day, Sunday, June 18^th, 2023, at United Memorial Medical Center. 

Todd was born January 7^th, 1954, in Batavia, a son of the late Paul I Randall and Joyce Ames Randall of Elba. Todd attended Elba Central School (ECS) where his leadership skills emerged early as Class President, grades 7-12. Additionally, Todd’s athleticism netted him letters in football and in his favorite sport, tennis, playing with good friend, Bart Dentino. Todd also had a touch of musical talent playing trombone in the ECS band. Graduating in 1972, Todd was in the top ten of his class. Interestingly, his Mom was ECS secretary and typed his honors letter along with the nine others. Summers and most any down time, found Todd at CY Farms working and playing beside his best friend, Chris Yunker; both under the watchful eye of Carl and the loving care of Bernice. Many stories told and untold still linger amidst those barns and fields. 

Todd attended the State University of New York, Brockport. Majoring in Nursing, he earned his Bachelors in 1976, graduating with honors. Todd took his first job at the VA Hospital in Batavia. Inspired by the veterans for whom he cared; Todd joined the United States Air Force in 1978. After three years at March AFB, Riverside CA, talk of orders came, but southern California had won his heart. Todd departed the Air Force in 1981 and took his first intensive care job at Loma Linda Hospital. The fire was lit. His knowledge and expertise in critical care exploded and was noted: Todd became a licensed RN legal consultant/expert witness. 

But, spurred by memories of his 1980 Air Force Flight School, Todd re-entered the USAF in 1984 at Maxell AFB, Montgomery AL. As Captain, he was put in charge of their small ICU. Todd immediately recognized the unit was outdated, so found himself in the Commander’s office pushing for modernization. Soon he was working side by side engineers designing the hospital’s new ICU. Todd’s critical care expertise, leadership and relentless effort to meet any challenge head on won him his next assignment to the 1st Medical Air Evacuation Squadron, Pope AFB, Fayetteville, NC. 

At Pope, Todd was immersed in a world of high energy, fast paced, critical care, field nursing, i.e., in his glory. He was immediately welcomed by the C-130 “Tarmac Toads” and became “Sparky” after hit by a fractured lightning bolt while teaching Self-Aid and Buddy Care at co-located Ft Bragg. Professionally, Todd soared becoming Chief of Standards & Evaluation (StandEval) where he managed and conducted C-130 flight emergency procedures as well as crew evaluations and certifications for tactical aerovac. Dec 1989 brought the pinnacle of Todd’s career: 1^st AES deployment in support of Operation Just Cause, Panama. Todd was an integral team member who performed life-saving interventions, stabilizing wounded soldiers for aeromedical evacuation and sadly, bringing home some of those killed in action.

Late 1990, Todd’s Pope experience led him to the small, remote, tri-service base of Lajes Field, Azores, Portugal. Small meant many “hats.” Todd served as Assistant Chief Nurse, Emergency Room (ER) Officer In Charge (OIC) of the best group of ER techs ever and Staff Development & Training OIC. Hot off his flying assignment, Todd helped create an Aerovac Coordinator position moving Army, Navy and Air Force troops stateside for more in depth or intensive care. From that sprouted Todd’s one nurse deep--Aquavac Coordinator--rescuing critically ill Navy crew from passerby subs via a pontoon boat. At Lajes, Todd pinned on Major. Outside the business of work, Todd managed to engage another Air Force nurse, Capt Lisa Alsippi. With his favorite Chief Nurse’s blessing, Todd and Lisa were married 19 Oct 1991.

Now “joint spouse,” the Randall’s headed for Elmendorf AFB, Anchorage, AK. Here, Todd ran the Special Care Unit, obtained his Master’s in Business Organizational Management and completed Air War College. But in 1995, Todd attained his greatest life achievement---a father to a son, Collin. 

After four gorgeous years in Alaska and a very long, but interesting drive down the Al Can with his Dad, Todd arrived at Wright-Patterson AFB, Dayton, OH. At this major medical center, Todd served as OIC of the surgical floor. He eventually made his way to Medical Readiness earning kudos from base and civilian authorities for developing in-depth, highly realistic base exercises. Here, he pinned on Lieutenant Colonel.

From Dayton, Todd proceeded to Scott AFB, Bellville, IL where he again managed a surgical floor at a major medical center. Now a Lt Col with tactical aerovac experience, highly regarded clinical expertise and exceptional leadership skills, Todd attained his premier and final position as Chief Nurse, 375^th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, overseeing, directing and flying the final missions of the C-9 Nightingale prior to its retirement. On Sep 30, 2002, Todd retired after 22 years of service. 

Following Lisa to Mt Home AFB, Mt Home, ID, Todd was not very good at being “retired”, so applied for a hospital, GS-11, Medical Readiness Manager position. Todd took a mess of a program and made it shine. His efforts not only won a base award, but an Air Combat Command award, and beyond that, Air Force Medical Readiness Manager of the Year. With that, the ultimate: an F-15 Fighter jet ride. His “fun meter was pegged.” 

Todd moved to Greensburg PA, near Lisa’s folks, when she retired in 2006. He worked in a local cardiac unit, but ulcerative colitis took over his world. Todd became severely ill from 2008-2011, nearly dying. He eventually got back on his feet and took his all-time desired retirement job--“Custodian”-- at Charter Oak United Methodist Church. Here, thanks to the lead pastor and some very special staff, Todd grew in his beliefs and relationship with God. 

In 2014, Todd returned to his heartland, Genesee County, NY, bought a house and made it his life project. He joined Northgate Free Methodist Church where he served as usher, helped with church beautification/construction projects and visited/helped shut-in veterans and church members. Thanks to his Pastor and very good friend, Vern Saile, his small group and many others from the Saturday evening service, Todd’s knowledge and understanding of the Bible grew immensely and his relationship with the Lord flourished. Todd also became an extensive gardener like his Dad and later, a near-crazed exerciser, especially cycling. However, late 2021, Todd started to notice changes in his muscles and strength. In early 2022, the symptoms became inhibiting and in Oct 2022, Todd was diagnosed with Progressive Muscular Atrophy (PMA) a cousin/sub-type of ALS/Lou Gehrig’s disease which, along with Crohn’s, eventually stole his life. 

Todd is survived by his son, Collin Randall of St Louis, his mother, Joyce Randall and brother, Dave (Laura) Randall both of Batavia; his niece, Emily (Joe) DeSantis of Silver Spring, MD, his nephew, Wesley Randall of Bethel, CT and his former spouse and good friend, Lisa Randall, of New Derry, PA. 

Todd was preceded in death by his father, Paul I Randall and first ex-wife, Barbara (Zigrossi) Randall of Oakfield. 

Visitation will be held on Saturday, July 15, 2023 from 10 am to 11 am at Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia. Todd’s Memorial service with military honors will follow visitation at 11 am or via https://www.facebook.com/northgatefmc.  Pastor Vern Saile will officiate his services.  A reception will follow memorial services in the church common area. Interment will be private at Maplelawn Cemetery, Elba, NY. 

Donations may be made in Todd’s memory to Northgate Free Methodist Church, 8160 Bank Street Road, Batavia, New York 14020, The ALS Association, 1300 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 600, Arlington, Virginia, 22209 or The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, National Headquarters, Attn: Financial Operations, 733 Third Street, Suite 510, New York, New York 10017.  To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com. 

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

                                                                                             Aimin’ High, Going Far, carry on good friend. 

Robin S. Johns, 60, of Clifton Springs, NY passed away on July 1, 2023. She was born on June 16, 1963 in Niagara Falls to the late Earl and Donna Thyret. 

She is survived by her 4 daughters; Tanya Thyret, Jessica (Richard) Galluzzo, Andrea Capwell and Traci (Aaron) Pierce; 5 grandchildren Tracy, Joshua, Micah, Levi, Dominick and Stella; Sister Tammy Sumbler; brother Bobby Higgens, along with several nieces and nephews. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A Celebration of her Life will take place at a later date.

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

Thomas Sobczak, age 86, of Batavia, passed away on June 30, 2023 at Premier Genesee Nursing and Rehabilitation Center after a long battle with Leukemia.

Tom joined the United States Navy in 1954. Following his discharge from the Navy, he worked for the United States Postal Service from 1964 -1989 as a mail carrier in Buffalo. After moving to Genesee County, Tom worked for Surecast and Orcon for several years. Tom and Sally moved to Florida whereTom retired from the State of Florida Highway Department.

Tom is survived by his companion, Sally Teabout, his son, Christopher Sheer (Sheryl) and daughter Kim Lambert, both of Leander, Texas; three granddaughters, Emma, Riley and Gracie. Tom is also survived by Sally’s children, Mark (Sue Ellan) Bates of Corfu, Scott (Sue) Bates of Basom and the late Cindy Miano; Sally’s six grandchildren, Jaime, Nicole, Kristina, Mitchell, Melanie and Hillary along with 8 great grandchildren.

Tom was a member of the American Legion Post 332. Tom enjoyed fishing, cooking and watching the game shows. Tom was a big fan that cheered on the Florida State Seminoles, Buffalo Bills and the Buffalo Sabres! He enjoyed spending time with family and camp fires. One of Tom’s biggest joys was with the family pets, especially his Jellybean!

At the request of Tom, there will be no calling hours. He will be laid to rest with military honors on Thursday, August 3, 2023 at 11 am at Western New York National Cemetery. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

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

Robert S. Peet, formerly of West Seneca, NY, entered into rest on June 30, 2023. He was born on June 19, 1949, to Raymond Lloyd Peet Jr. and Dorothy Tennet. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Leslie Ann (nee Sullivan) Peet; his sons, Steven and Scott, and his two grandchildren, Isabella and Ozzy; his two brothers, Douglas (Donna), Russell (Liza); his great-aunt Jean, and his uncle Pete. 

Robert graduated from Batavia High School in 1967, where he wrestled and played trombone in the high school band. From there, he enrolled in St. Lawrence University, continuing to wrestle and belonging to the Phi Kappa Sigma fraternity. To support himself through college, he worked for Oatka Milk Products as a lab technician for 8 years. Upon returning home to Batavia, Robert enrolled in the American National Guard and begun attending University of Buffalo Dental School, where he graduated in 1976. In time, Robert purchased, opened and operated his own practice as a solo dentist. In his free time, Robert was an avid fisherman. He loved his boats and motorcycles and enjoyed a good round of golf. Robert will be truly missed by all those he has come to love. 

A Celebration of Robert’s life will be held August 16, 2023, at Fireman’s Park in West Seneca, where his family and friends will meet from 3-6PM.

Barbara A. Guppenberger (90 years old) a long time resident of Batavia passed away following a brief illness, in Spencerport surrounded by family on Tuesday Feb. 14, 2023.

Barbara was born in Batavia on January 3, 1933, a daughter of Mary Zeitz and August Guppenberger. Following her graduation from Batavia High School in 1950 she began her 30 plus years of employment at the New York Telephone company in Batavia, rising to a position of foreman.

She is survived by her brother James (Jean) Guppenberger of Titusville, FL; and predeceased by her sisters: Mary (John) Yunker, Helene (Robert) Beuler, and Lois (John) Gringer as well as her brothers: Francis (Carol) Guppenberger, Rev. August Guppenberger and Joseph Guppenberger.

She is also survived by a multitude of nieces & nephews, great nieces & nephews, great-great nieces & nephews and great-great-great nieces & nephews. Over the years Barbara spent her leisure time driving her boat on Conesus Lake, completing paint by number pictures, painting ceramic sculptures and bowling. She will be greatly missed by all, her gracious and loving devotion to her family continues to be a guiding light for all to follow.

Friends and family are invited to attend an 11:00AM Memorial Mass on Saturday July 8, 2023 at Resurrection Parish (St. Mary’s) 18 Ellicott St. in Batavia. Barb was buried in St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Batavia, NY.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the donor’s choice. To leave messages of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Stefan J. Stockton, 88, of Batavia, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2023.

Born to the late Burton and Britta (Bird) Stockton on April 22, 1935, Stef was a life-long Batavia resident.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Judith Rose Stockton, their three daughters; Stefanie Stockton-Kobos, Kimberly (Carl) Pepe and Melody (Mike) Cole, along with 6 grandchildren; Valerie (Isaac) Hartunen, Andrew Dardaris, Christina McCartney, Grace Pepe, and Caiden and Conner Stockton-Kobos.  Also survived by brother-in-law, Fred Hyde, Mark (Liz) Hoover and numerous nieces and nephews.  Preceded in death by his sister, Sedra Hyde.

Stef's family was his first love and he enjoyed playing games and spending time with family.  He also had numerous beloved family pets over the years and he could often be seen walking his dog throughout town.  He was a die-hard Buffalo Bills and NY Yankees fan. He enjoyed family picnics, bowling and in his retirement,  trips to Batavia Downs.  He is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps and worked for UPS for 30 years.

There are no prior calling hours and services will be held privately. Stef will be laid to rest in Western New York National Cemetery, Corfu.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Volunteers For Animals, PO Box 1621, Batavia, NY 14021 www.vol4animals.org/donations.

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

Arrangements for Stefan were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868.

Michael D. Borkholder, 60, of Oakfield passed away Monday July 3, 2023. He was born on December 10, 1962 to John and Beverly (Cranston) Borkholder of Oakfield. 

Micheal is survived by his loving wife; Janet Borkholder; children Jamie (Caleb) Morrow, Jonas (Victor Wiedemann) Borkholder, Stacy (Keith) Snyder, Tracey (Mark) Burgio; Grandchildren Gavin, Lilly, Tucker, Trake, Tryson, Connor; Siblings Debbie (Buzz) Lowe, Steve (Lisa) Borkholder, Jim (Becky) Borkholder; along with several nieces and nephews and also great nieces and nephews and his Dog children; Zach and Zoey. 

Mike was the Head of Maintenance at United Memorial since 2011. He was self-employed for many years (Polar Refrigeration) and was a well-known butcher at the Meat shop, and even found time to do house renovations for family and friends. He was involved in the 4H Club as a child up through being a leader with his kids in swine club and forming shooting sports club. Mike Coached Stacy’s softball, loved hunting, archery, taking his kids fishing and Caribbean vacations with his family and friends. You could find him hanging out at the range with family and friends 3d archery, trap shooting, or enjoying a Busch Light can with the tab always at 10 o’clock and loved Tropi wine. Mike will be remembered as a funny, witty, intelligent man who loved spending time with his grandkids and was a Jack of all trades and was never too busy to lend a helping hand. He was a workaholic, always cracking jokes and had a unique personality that made him loved by all. 

Friends and family are invited to call on Sunday July 9, 2023 from 1:00PM – 4:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Co. Inc. 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. An 11:00AM Funeral Service will be held on Monday July 10^th at the Funeral Home. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Genesee County 4H Club 420 East Main St. Batavia, NY 14020. To leave an online message of condolence, please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com  Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Company, Inc. 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.