Obituaries

Marilyn W. Donahue, 92 of Batavia, passed away on Friday, July 19, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester. She was born November 13, 1931 in Batavia, to the late Clifford and Evelyn (Bartlett) Wood. She is preceded in death by her brother Charles Wood.

Mrs. Donahue graduated from Batavia High School in 1949. She retired from Batavia City School District, and was passionate about education and focused on helping children. Marilyn loved her time with Batavia High School Choristers under the direction of Frank Owen and she volunteered with Batavia Band Boosters.

She is survived by her sons, Rev. Dr. Bradley Donahue (Gayle) of Ohio and Jeffrey Donahue of Batavia, NY; three grandchildren, Matthew Donahue (Jill), Kathleen Barone (Ben) and Marc Donahue; four great-grandchildren, Lillian Barone, Veronica Barone, Isabel Donahue, and Wesley Donahue. She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Linda Wood and several cousins.

The family will receive friends beginning at 3:00 pm until the time of the service at 4:00 p.m. The Celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, August 3, 2024 at The City Church, 210 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. She will be laid to rest in Grand View Cemetery, Batavia. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Charles Wood Study at The City 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, New York 14020. 

Josephine R. Jackett, 75, of Batavia passed away on July 20, 2024 at the United Memorial Medical Center. She was born in Batavia on November 13, 1948 to the late John and Alice (Houck) Torcello. In addition to her parents, Josephine is predeceased by her brothers; John and James Torcello; grandson Riley Ohlson.

She is survived by her husband; Eugene Jackett; daughters Sondra Olcott and Lori (Ron) Haas; grandchildren Dora DeVay, Kaleb Haas and Bela Olcott; along with her niece Brooke Torcello. 

Josie was a bit of a medical miracle, having had the first open heart surgery on a child at Buffalo Children’s Hospital in 1959 at the age of 11. She served school lunches at Jackson School for over 20 years and after retiring from the school she worked at the Batavia Walmart for 25 years. Josie was a lifelong Buffalo Bills fan and a lover of horses which she instilled in her daughters. She adored all animals but had a special place for her furry companions Boris, Bagel and Freddie who were always by her side, along with her grand pup, Ember. Josie adored her grandchildren loved her work family too and they loved their JoJo.

Friends and family are invited to call on Saturday August 3, 2024 from 3:00 to 6:00pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A closing Prayer will follow visitation at the Funeral Home. 

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.

Albion/Bergen: Gerald P. “Jerry” Claus, age 61 passed away July 21, 2024 at the Martin Linsin Hospice Residence in Albion. He was born May 10, 1963 in Rochester to the late Gerald and Catherine (Messmer) Claus.

Jerry worked for RG&E for over 40 years and in his spare time enjoyed hunting, fishing, 4-wheeling, snowmobiling and anything that had to do with the great outdoors.

Jerry is survived by his son Troy (fiancé Lexie Patterson) Claus, granddaughter Charlotte Claus, former spouse and mother of Troy, Carol Claus, sister, Elizabeth (Jeff) Aradine, nephew Jeffrey (Bethany) Aradine, niece Jenna Aradine, great-nieces Kate and Abby Aradine, his two dogs Shadow and Dyson as well as many friends.

Jerry’s family will receive friends at the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home 21 West Ave. Albion, NY 14411 on Saturday, July 27th from 1:00-3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in Jerry’s name may be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 Albion, NY 14411.

To share a special memory of Jerry, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.

Jerry K. Drayer of Geneva, NY, formerly of Akron, NY, passed away suddenly Saturday July 20, 2024 at the age of 82.

 Jerry is survived by his wife, Jane C. Drayer; sons, Steven (Linda) Drayer, Kevin (Mary Beth) Drayer; daughter, Kristen (Gerry) Charles; stepsons, Christopher (Katy) Connolly and Michael (Beth) Connolly; 12 grandchildren, Gianna and Matthew (Steve), Chelsea, Gabrielle, Zach and Julia (Kevin), Jaxson and Ava (Kristen), Evan and Brendan (Chris) and William and Christopher (Michael).

Jerry was a history teacher and multi-sport coach at Akron Central for 37 years coaching young men and women in Wrestling, Cross Country and Track and Field. He is best known for his Akron teams wrestling achievements winning numerous Niagara Orleans League titles and most recently with being inducted into the Western New York Wrestling Hall of Fame. Jerry continued coaching high school wrestling at Waterloo High School for 16 additional years after retiring from Akron in 1998, compiling into a 53 year coaching career in the sport he loved most.

Friends and family may call THURSDAY July 25th from 4-7 at Miller Funeral and Cremation Services, Inc. (3325 Winton Rd. S, Rochester, NY 14623) and on FRIDAY July 26th from 10 AM to 1 PM at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC (32 John St., Akron, NY 14001). Interment will be private.

There will be a Memorial Service honoring Jerry and his contributions to the Akron Central School District in August. Dates and details will be released. There is also an annual scholarship fund being established in Jerry’s name that will be associated with Akron Central School to memorialize his love of wrestling.

Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

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

Robert C. Funke, 82 of Basom, passed away on Sunday, July 21, 2024 at Buffalo General Hospital. He was born October 20, 1941 in Batavia, a son of the late Robert and Elizabeth (Kelsey) Funke. Besides his parents, he is preceded in death by his first wife, Eileen (O’Brien) Funke who passed away on October 18, 1997.

Bob was raised in East Pembroke and graduated from Corfu High School in 1959. He served in the United States Air Force from 1960 until 1964. Upon his honorable discharge, he went to work for Rochester Telephone where he worked for 36 years.

Bob traveled extensively in the United States, Canada and Europe. His travels included 5 of the continents. He loved to read, play cards, spent many hours working in his yard. He was active with Men’s Group at St. Padre Pio Parish where he was honored to receive the St. Joseph the worker award. Bob especially loved his grand kids. Teaching them card games, playing golf, and attending their many scholastic and athletic events.

Survivors include his wife, Christine (Shoureck/Bigger); daughter Vaune (Doug) Kopeck of Maryland; two sons, Todd (Gina) Funke of North Carolina and Brocton Funke of Buffalo. He is also survived by two step-daughters, Melissa (Brett) Domoy of Basom and Jessica (Robert) Windhausen of Cato, grandchildren; Logan Kopeck, Joshua Kopeck, Justin Funke, Allyson Funke, Connor Domoy, Mackenzie Domoy, Gavin Windhausen, Dakota Windhausen, great-grandson Carson Kopeck; and a sister Connie Wortman. Bob is also survived by many nieces, nephews and extended family members.

Friends and family are invited to call on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A 10:00am Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, July 25, 2024 at St. Padre Pio Parish, 56 Maple Ave., Oakfield, NY 14125. He 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 or to Genesee-Orleans Ministry of Concern, 29 E. State St., Albion, NY 14411. 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. 

On July 20, 2024, Robert A. (Bob) Carlsen Jr. went home to be with the Lord.  He is survived by his loving wife, Grace, of almost 72 years.  Robert is predeceased by his daughter, Rebecca Buck.  He is survived by his son, David (Cathie) of Pavilion, daughter Jennifer (Bill) of East Pembroke, and Son-in-law Michael Buck of Batavia.

He leaves behind seven Grandchildren; Cassandra (John) Carlsen-Bakker, Robert (Brittany) Buck, Ryan (Carley) Buck, Carissa (Kyle) Carlsen-Trevas, Ken (Kelley) MacGregor, Josh (Jacqueline) MacGregor, Douglas (Kassandra) Carlsen, as well as seven great-grandchildren.

Robert is predeceased by two brothers, Duane & Gary. He is survived by two sisters, Linda (Brian) Canfield, and Brenda (Clarence) Korabek.  

Robert was a lifelong member of the East Bethany Presbyterian Church.  He served on the board of Elders as well as the board of Trustees.  

Robert served in the Army and spent one year in Korea.  In 1972, he and Grace purchased Derrick Monument Co. and worked there with his son and granddaughter until his retirement.  He was an assessor for the Town of Stafford for many years. He also served as Superintendent of Stafford Cemetery and President of Elmwood Cemetery in Batavia.  

He was an avid sports fan, especially the New York Yankees.  Over the years, he, along with his family, traveled to many ball parks to watch them play.  

Robert was a Husband, Father, Grandfather, Businessman, and Friend. He will be missed.

Visitation will be held at the East Bethany Presbyterian Church, 5735 Ellicott St. Road, East Bethany, on Saturday, July 27th at 10:00 am with the funeral to follow at 11:30.  Following the service, the family invites you to a luncheon in the fellowship hall.  His internment with military honors will be held at Stafford Rural Cemetery at 3pm.    

Memorials can be made in his memory to the East Bethany Presbyterian church.

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

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

Attica - Marilyn W. Spencer, 92 of Attica passed away on Thursday, (July 18, 2024) at Gateway Home in Attica.

Mrs. Spencer was born May 28, 1932 in Auburn, a daughter of the late Frederick E. and Philomena (Rafferty) Walsh.

Marilyn was a parishioner of SS. Joachim & Anne Parish - St. Vincent's Worship Site in Attica for many years. A true caregiver, Mrs. Spencer babysat for numerous children while raising her own family. Once her children were grown, Marilyn went to nursing school, becoming a Licensed Practical Nurse, and worked at St. Jerome's and United Memorial Medical Center prior to her retirement. Nursing was her passion her entire adult life.

Mrs. Spencer enjoyed bowling at Attica Lanes and Mancuso's. But most of all, she cherished every moment spent with her family. She will be remembered as a kind and caring wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.

Surviving are her children, Steven (Patricia) Spencer of Attica, Deborah (late Jerry) Smith of Texas, Cynthia Spencer of Attica, and Kim (Joseph Sauka) Spencer of Darien. 14 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 4 great-great-grandchildren along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins also survive.

Marilyn in reunited in death with her parents; husband, Jack Spencer; son, Kevin Spencer; brother, Frederick "Bob" Walsh; sisters, Judith Merill, Bonita Glosson, and Patricia Schwelkard.

Family and friends are invited to attend Marilyn's Graveside Service at 11:00 a.m. on Thursday (July 25, 2024) at St. Vincent's Cemetery, Exchange Street in Attica. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Gateway Home, 91 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Elba - William D. Hart, 77 of Elba  passed away on Friday, (July 19, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Mr. Hart was born July 1, 1947 in Batavia, a son of the late Howard and Dorothy (Day) Hart.

Bill/Dad was a very special prankster with a very special talent for making people laugh. He could talk about anything to anyone, especially related to the great outdoors.

Bill is survived by his wife, Joyce (Lawrence) Hart of Elba; children, Kelly (Ken) Smith of Middleburg, Florida, and Ryan Hart of Elba; grandchildren, Carsyn Smith, Carter Smith, and Justin Hart; brother, Greg (Sharon) Hart of Berryville, Virginia. Nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends also survive.

Family and friends are invited to call on Saturday, (July 27, 2024)  from 10 to11:00 am  at Indian Falls Global Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Road, Corfu where Bill's Memorial Service will immediately follow visitation at 11:00 am. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Elba Fire Department, 7143 Oak Orchard Road, Elba, New York 14058 or Volunteers for Animals, PO Box 1621, Batavia, New York 14020.  

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.

Susanne M. Welch, age 90, a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and friend passed away peacefully on Wednesday, July 17, 2024 while in Comfort Care at Sisters of Charity of Hospital in Buffalo.

She was born November 5,1933 in Salamanca, a daughter of the late Daniel and Beatrice Fee Duhan, one of 19 children.

She was married to Joseph P. Welch for 57 years before his passing in November 2013.

Sue’s love to and devotion for family was unparalleled and she often expressed this through the time she spent with them, the care she provided, the cookies she baked and the happiness she found in life’s simple pleasure. Her joy was without measure with the arrival of each of her 18 grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

St. Joseph Parish in Batavia was an important place to her throughout her entire adult life where she enjoyed daily mass and then out to breakfast with her wonderful coffee club friends. All of her children attended St. Joseph School, were baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph’s. Sue was a member of the Ladies Sodality at the Church and for many years helped with the Catholic Charities Appeal.

She was a loyal sports enthusiast watching children and grandchildren in the gyms and on the playing fields and also cheering for her beloved Buffalo Bills. Sue worked as an election inspector for many years as well as working the national Census three times.

She is survived by her children, Joseph Welch, Jr. of Batavia, Julie (Doug) Burt of Cuba, Mary Ellen (Bob) Zickl of Batavia, Kathleen Carr of Cheektowaga, Eileen Zilliox of Webster; Sheila Woodrich of Oakfield and Peggy (Dan) Welch-Ireland of Bergen; grandchildren, Matthew Welch; Susie, Sarah and Joanna Burt; Sean and Katie Czaja, Meghan, Joe and Jim Zickl; Danny Carr; Hannah and Brett Zilliox; Haley, Emily and Caitlin Woodrich; and Zach, Adam and Josh Swapceinski; 9 great grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews.

Sue’s family would like to thank the wonderful staff of Sisters of Charity Hospital in Buffalo, especially the 4th floor staff who helped her so much in her last days.

Friends may call on Friday from 4 pm to 7 pm at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 9:30 am at St. Joseph's Church, 303 East Main Street, Batavia. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift in her name to St. Joseph's Regional School of Batavia Foundation, 2 Summit Street, Batavia, New York 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in her memory please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Charles A. Keil “Charlie”, 81 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Friday (July 19, 2024) at United Memorial Medical Center, while under the care of Hospice.

He was born December 2, 1942 in Wilkes Barre, PA, a son of the late Anthony and Helen Walkowiak Keil.

Charlie moved to Batavia with his family in 1955, and they quickly became part of the community. He was a graduate of Batavia High School class of 1960, Genesee Community College and RIT. In 1965, he was General Manager of the Pittsburgh Pirates affiliate in the NY Penn League. He began his career in finance at Trojan Industries in Batavia. He worked there for 29 years until its closing. He then worked for a brief time at UMMC and finished his career in finance at Eastern Molding as Controller of the company, retiring in 2007.

He was a member of Resurrection Parish and the former St. Nick’s Club. He played softball for over 25 years and was an original member of the “Losers” softball team. He followed all sports, local and professional, and was an avid fan of the New York Yankees and the Cleveland Browns. He could always find a sporting event on TV, the radio or the internet. He also enjoyed playing golf and he and his wife spent a number of winters in Florida.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Linda Sando Keil. Brothers, Anthony Keil and Michael (Angela) Keil of Fairport. Brothers-in-law, Vincent Sando (Nancy Sandroni) of Florida and Robert Sando (Cathleen Cook) of Florida. Nieces and nephews, Stephanie and Jon Moretti of Mexico, NY, Christine Keil of Fairport, Fred and Lynsey Keil of Fairport, Anthony and Meghen Keil of Webster, Max Keil (Lisa Peers) of Fairport, Alex Keil of Fairport, Jason Sando of Elba and Garrett and Wyatt Sando of Elba. Also survived by great nieces and nephews.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Thursday (July 25^th) from 4-6pm at the J. Leonard McAndrew Funeral Home, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, NY. His Mass of Christian Burial will be Friday (July 26^th), 9:30am at Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main St. in Batavia. Burial with Military Honors will follow in St. Joseph Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14020 or to a charity of the donors preference. 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.

Bergen ~ Steve M. Vernaccini, age 100, of Woodside Drive, passed away early Friday morning (July 19, 2024) at United Memorial Medical Center in Batavia.

     He was born October 16, 1923 in Rock Glen, N.Y., a son of the late Stefano and Petrina Lamitina Vernaccini.   

  Steve’s family moved to LeRoy in 1925, where he eventually attended school. Unfortunately, he left school during his Junior year to help support his family.  He was eventually drafted and served his country proudly with the U.S. Army. During his time with the Army during WWII, Steve was stationed in Virginia, California, Hawaii and eventually Iwo Jima.  Upon returning, he married the love of his life, Rose M. Fiorella on June 22, 1946. He went on to work for the LeRoy Machine Shop and retired after a 30 year career. 

     He was a die-hard NY Yankees fan and on October 10. 2023, Steve received his LeRoy Central High School diploma.

     He will be sadly missed by his son, Steve (Linda) Vernaccini; his sister, Josephine Luce, along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and two great-great-nephews.

     Steve was predeceased by his loving wife of 47 years, Rose; his siblings, Joe (Tina), Sam (Bea), Frank (Nancy), Florence (Ross) Vinci, brother-in-law, Earl Luce and special friend, Mary Torcello.

     Friends may call from 3:30 ~ 5:00 PM on Thursday, July 25 at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  His Rite of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 26 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake Street, LeRoy.  Private Interment.

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

Stafford ~ Mark A. Battaglia, age 35, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

     He was born April 10, 1989 in Amherst, N.Y., a son of Mark G. Battaglia and Jacqueline Lester.   

  Mark will be remembered as a loving fiancée, father, son, brother, grandson, uncle and dear friend to many.  He was very proud of his children and cherished the time he could spend with them. He will be missed for his sense of humor, his smile, along with his jokes and laughter.  Mark enjoyed fishing, shooting and cars.

     He is survived by his fiancée, Pam Lyons; children, Josie and Camren; parents, Mark (Gina) Battaglia and Jackie (Chris Brown) Lester; siblings, Gregory (Brittany Hart) Battaglia, Rebecca Battaglia, Ryan Brown, Megan (Mike) Robbins and Benjamin Saxe; maternal grandmother, Rosemarie Lester; fiancee’s parents, Sue and Paul Davidson; fiancee’s sister, Donna (Jesse) Peck, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

     Mark was predeceased by his paternal grandparents, Anthony and Rose Battaglia and his maternal grandfather, John Lester.

     Family and friends may call on Wednesday, July 24 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  Services will be private.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Mark’s family.

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

Paul E. Merle, "Ol' Koot", 72, of Alexander passed away peacefully at his home on July 18, 2024. He was born in Batavia on August 8, 1951 to the late Vernon and Winifred (Straub) Merle. In addition to his parents, Paul is predeceased by his brother; Jake Merle and brother-in-law Jim McMahon.

He is survived by his loving wife; Sheila (McMahon) Merle; son Jason (Amanda) Merle; daughter Jessica (Kris) Kramer; sister Gerry Carmichael; brothers Don (Peggy) Merle, Al Merle and Ed Merle; sister-in-laws Rosanne (Jim) McMahon, and Patricia Carney. Grandchildren Saige (Ryan) Piechocki, Serena (Mike) Lindsay, Mya Merle, Jake Merle, Hailie Kramer, Nick Kramer, Alyssa Kramer, Alexa Merle and Rylie Merle; great-grandchildren Ryan and Rosalie Piechocki; along with nieces, nephews and cousins. 

Paul loved visiting with his grandkids, family and friends, his weekly card games, helping strangers whenever and where ever he was called to, and taking rides to The Last Pasture.

There will be no prior calling hours and Services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alexander Fire Department PO Box 336 Alexander, NY 14005. 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.

Batavia- Judith “Judy” Showerman, age 75, passed away on Tuesday, July 16th, 2024 in Batavia, NY at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing at Batavia.

She was born on July 30, 1948, in Batavia, NY, to the late George and Alethea (Follett) Showerman. Judy spent 60 of her last 75 years living in the family home at Genesee County Fish and Game Protective Association (Godfrey's Pond).

Judy’s passions included reading and watching true crime stories and listening to all types of music, which was a source of comfort and joy throughout her life. Her love for animals was profound, with her first companion, Peaches, holding a special place in her heart. She had a quick wit, loved to laugh, and her sense of humor was well-known.

Judy is survived by her only daughter, Kimberly (Fred) Amey of Attica; Grandson, Jacob Amey of Attica and special, long-time friend Daryl McCracken. She is also fondly remembered by brother-in-law, Lon Horton of NC, Teague (Courtney) Horton of NC; nephew Trevor (Jennifer) Horton of MN; and extended family and friends within the McCracken family and Godfrey’s Pond Community.

In death Judy is reunited with her parents, George and Alethea Showerman, her only sister, Patricia (Showerman) Horton and beloved grandmother and confidant, Addie (Myers) Showerman.

The family wishes to say a special thank you to the staff at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Home in Batavia. The warm, caring environment was a blessing in Judy’s final 2 years.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, Batavia, NY. A celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Judy’s memory to The Richmond Library - 19 Ross St, Batavia, NY 14020 or Genesee County Fish and Game Protective Association (Godfrey’s Pond).

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

Batavia- Donald R Priolo, aged 72, passed away on July 12, 2024, in his hometown of Batavia, NY at Crossroads House. He was surrounded by his family and loved ones.

He was born on January 25, 1952, in Batavia, NY. A son of the late Paul and Irene Priolo, Donald was a beloved local figure known for his gentle and humble demeanor, and deep love for his family.

Donald graduated from Batavia Senior High in 1971 and proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1972 until 1974, upon his honorable discharge. His passion for military history, especially the Civil War, deepened. After his service, he often shared his extensive knowledge and stories with fellow history enthusiasts.

Donald's legacy continues through his daughter Jamie Shultz (Rick Townley) and his cherished grandchildren, Ricky and Taya (Nic). Survived by his two brothers, Louis (Linda) and David (Bonnie) Priolo, and one sister, Rita (Priolo) Larson, brother-in-law John Karle, and many nieces and nephews.

In death Donald is reunited with his parents, Paul and Irene Priolo; sister, Ann Marie (Priolo) Karle and brother-in-law, Richard Larson.

Donald will be missed by his beloved family and extended family; David and William; nephews Alexander (Danielle), William Jr. (Mina), and predeceased by Ann and George.

Calling hours will be on Friday, September 20, 2024, from 10:00am to 12:00pm at H.E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street Batavia, NY. Military honors and interment will be on Friday, September 20, 2024 at 1:00pm in Western New York Veteran’s Cemetery at 1:00pm.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Crossroads House- 11 Liberty St, Batavia, NY 14020, or the American Cancer Society, honoring Donald's compassionate spirit.

A man who enjoyed the simple pleasures, Donald's mild manner and warm conversations will be missed by all who knew him. Details regarding memorial services will be announced later.

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