Skip to main content

Obituaries

Tamara Ann Slichta

By Joshua Smith
Slichta

Batavia - Tamara Ann Slichta, 54 of Batavia, formerly of Buffalo, passed away on Sunday, (July 28, 2024) at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Batavia.

Ms. Slichta was born November 18, 1969 in Buffalo, a daughter of the late David and Dolores (Landowski) Slichta.

Tamara will be remembered as having a kind and beautiful heart. She had a strong love for animals, often giving them funny nicknames with her quirky sense of humor. Tam greatly loved the beach and collecting sea shells and sea glass. She was a fan of all genres of music; especially loving the music of Metallica and Lenny Kravitz.

Halloween was her favorite holiday and she was known for her Halloween shenanigans, decorations, and dressing up for parties. She had a cat named PJs and always dressed him up too!

Tamara is survived by her brother, Brian (Jeanette Falasa) Slichta of Jacksonville, Florida; her sister, Lisa (Matthew Gober) Slichta of Corfu; her long time friend whom she dearly loved, Daniel Vona; her lifelong childhood best friend, Andrea Diberardino.

Services will be private at the convenience of the family.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Volunteers for Animals, PO box 1621, Batavia, New York 14021.

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.

Fritz (Francis R. Rowsick)

By Joshua Smith
Fritz

“He is quite a character”, is the reply you get when you ask Bergen folk if they know Fritz Rowsick.

Fritz (Francis R. Rowsick) was born in, and dearly loved Pittsburg, PA. He was born on October 6, 1939 and left us suddenly on July 27, 2024 at his home in Bergen, NY. His life career was in advertising and finances for various companies. His last job was his favorite- he drove school bus (small bus) for Pittsford Central school district. He sang along with the kids on the bus as he drove them safely to their destinations. A week or so after his retirement the current driver on the bus called him in the morning and asked him to sing a song for the kids, as they missed him dearly, and of course he did sing to them over the phone to their delight, and his as well.

Fritz married his high school sweetheart (Pat) and they had three children. Pat died on August 17, 2011, after being married to Fritz for 49 years. Several months following Pat’s death Mr. Rowsick joined a spousal support group. It was here he met Elizabeth Van Valkenburg, also a widow, and they married on January 2, 2013.

Mark Rowsick, his son with Down syndrome, was well known in our community prior to his death.  He also had 2 stepsons who also died, Matthew Greenman and John Greenman. Family missing him on Earth is Bud Rowsick, his son from Pittsburgh; stepchildren, Ron Greenman and wife, Dawn, of Westminster, MD, David Van Valkenburg and wife, Pat, of Saugerties, NY, Donna Howard and her spouse Garth, of Caledonia. A daughter and family of Fritz’s of Canandaigua and a stepson and his family of Bergen sadly are estranged.

Also in Fritz’s family are his brother, Joe and wife, and his sister, Mary Anna Rowsick of Pittsburg. He had a fairly large family and tried to keep in contact with all the nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and cousins as best he could.

In his retirement, he and Liz traveled to Ireland, London, Paris, Rome, and Fiji, along with Greece and several train trips across the US. After all of that in the first few years of retirement, he was more than happy to settle down, stay home, and do some volunteer work. He was a substitute on the Bergen Board of Appeals, the Bergen Representative on the Office of the Aging Supervisory Board, member of the Holy Name Society at St. Brigid Church, and an official chocolate taster, no matter where he was, along with homemade (not by Liz) apple pie, with one slice never being enough. He spent a lot of time at the Bergen Public Library, bringing home videos to carry him and Liz over the weekend. He attended every sporting event that his step grandkids participated in at Byron Bergen Central and Cal Mum School. Mr. Rowsick also served as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Brigid.

Mr. Rowsick was very proud of his Lithuanian heritage and loved it when he met people who shared that with him. Luckily for everyone, Fritz didn’t know a whole lot of the Lithuanian language, but he would learn new words a few times a year and would share them, with the words he knew, whether anyone wanted to learn them or not!

Fritz belonged to a group that called themselves, The Elite, as in “The Elite Meet to Eat” that gathered for lunch one a month. The group was comprised of people he met at the Spousal Support Group. The Group has been faithful to these lunches for nearly 14 years. Every female member got a hug coming and going from Fritz.

There are no calling hours. There is however his funeral Mass at St. Brigid’s on Friday, August 2, 2024, at 10:00am. Interment will immediately follow the funeral Mass.

Memorial for our favorite character are suggested to: Bergen Public Library- 13 South Lave Ave., Bergen NY 14416 or Genesee Senior Foundation-specify Wellness Classes on the check, (he learned Tai Chi!, can you imagine that?) 2 Bank Street, Batavia NY 14020.

Please feel free to wear Steelers apparel to the Mass. (Guess what? That was his first and only team- what a surprise, eh?). Guess what else- he was NOT a registered Republican! (Who Knew).
 

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

Frederick P. "Fred" Mangefrida

By LaVern Falcone

Frederick P. “Fred” Mangefrida – aged 85 of Le Roy, NY, passed peacefully July 28, 2024 after a long illness.

     Fred was born June 30, 1939, in Batavia, NY, to the late Philip Mangefrida and the late Vadis Rudgers. He was predeceased by his brother, Frank Mangefrida, and stepmother, Vera.    

fred mangefrida

 A 1957 graduate of Le Roy High School, Fred remained a loyal fan of Oatkan Knight sports, especially football, throughout his life. He was a beloved teacher at Attica Central School for more than 29 years and loved running into his former students wherever he went. He served his community through positions on the boards of the Le Roy School District and Woodward Library and was inducted into the Knights of Columbus Catholic fraternal organization. 

     Fred was a devout Catholic and long-time parishioner of the former St. Joseph’s Church in Le Roy and later Our Lady of Mercy (St. Peter’s RC Church). He was known for his love of reading, movies, traveling, military history and will be remembered for his humorous storytelling and generous spirit.

     He is survived by his daughter Megan (Kevin) Cantalupo and their daughter Haley of Lincoln University, PA; Paul (Katie) Mangefrida of Le Roy; sisters Anne (John) Cook and their children Jared and Jesse of York, PA; and Phyllis Mangefrida (Norman Tibbils) and their children Devon and Darren of Rochester; nephews John (Kim) Mangefrida and their children Ryan and Jordan; Michael (Cheryl) Mangefrida; and Philip (Tina) Mangefrida and their children Molly and Anthony, along with many beloved cousins and longtime friend and caregiver Julie Baetzold.

     Family and friends may call on Thursday, August 1 from 5 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  His Rite of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, August 2 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake St., LeRoy.  Interment in St. Francis Cemetery will be private.

     In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Le Roy Knights Inc., PO Box 351, Le Roy, NY 14482; Knights of Columbus (https://www.kofc.org/secure/en/donate/index.html) or Wilmot Cancer Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642.

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

     

Eric J. MacRae

By T.J. Woodward
m

Eric J. MacRae passed peacefully over the line from this world to the next on Sunday, July 28th after an arduous battle to keep his damaged heart beating. He was born in Buffalo, NY to Harriet (Carson) and James  MacRae Jr. on July 25th, 1947 and lived to see his 77th birthday, a mere 3 days before his ultimate parting.

Rick will be remembered as a unique individual who, throughout life lived by his own set of rules. He had a rambling soul that never settled on one path, but was open to the call of many experiences, through work or residence, spending his last days close to the ones he loved best; his daughters & his grand & great-grandchildren. He liked nothing more than to sit with a cup of coffee and a cigarette, regaling anyone and everyone with and his incredible tales of derring-do (some, even true). He will be sadly missed by many.

He leaves behind his daughters; Tammy (Clifford) Morgan and Tina Hartgrove, his grandchildren; Jacob and Clifford Morgan Jr., Alexandra (Neil) Northrup, Paige Morgan (David Hausler), Kathryn (Alex) Falu, Stephanie Hartgrove (Timothy Eastridge), Christopher Hartgrove and many great grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother Patrick MacRae and sisters Ellen (Steven) Hagen, Kristine Flicker and Kathleen Longchamps.

He was predeceased by his wives: Patricia (Spencer) and Raylene (Van Wort), his parents and his brothers; James MacRae and Kelly Longchamps.

As per his wishes, there will be no funeral service, though in his honor, maybe we can all dust off our Elvis LPs & sing along with him. 

Slán abhaile, Rick!

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made the Activities Fund at Washington Towers 1 State St. Batavia, NY 14020 or Crossroads House www.crossroadshouse.com. 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.

James E. Blackman

By Joshua Smith
Blackman

James Edward Blackman, age 78, of Batavia, NY, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, July 23rd, 2024, at Crossroads House, Batavia, NY.

He was born on Sunday, June 16th, 1946 in Batavia, NY. James was a beloved son of the late Herbert and Ruth (Green) Blackman.

James enjoyed spending time with his loved ones, fishing, camping, and time with family and friends. He was an amazing and loving man who would give the shirt off his back to help others. James showed his love and support for his country as a Marine. He spent his time at the Jerome Senior apartments, in Batavia, making friends. He loved everyone there and party’s. James loved his dogs and treated them as if they were his own children; they were the world to him.

James proudly served his country in the Marines from the winter of 1965 to the spring of 1968. He owned and operated his own dry walling business for many years, and later worked as an Associate at Walmart in Albion, New York.

He will be remembered by his daughters, Stephanie wolfe, and Jamie Meyer; sisters, Valerie (Late Bud) Fearby, Beverly Santon-Parsons, and a friend that was more like a brother to him, Mike Ingalsbe. James will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Herbert and Ruth Blackman, his spouse Bobbie Blackman, and his stepdaughter Leslie Wolfe. In death, James is now reunited with his loved ones in eternal peace.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home, Oakfield, NY. A burial with military funeral honors will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 1:00pm in Alabama Cemetery.

In lieu of Flowers, donations may be made in James' memory to Crossroads House- 11 Liberty Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

Condolences may be made at www.burdettandsanford.com.

Joseph R. Graff

By T.J. Woodward
jrg

Joseph R. Graff, 81 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at his home, surrounded by his family. He was born January 1, 1943 in Niagara Falls, to the late Joseph P. and Catherine (Ulrich) Graff. He is preceded in death by a brother, Robert Graff.

Joseph was a proud United States Army Veteran. He retired after 43 years at Batavia Daily News and was a longtime member of the Printers Union. Mr. Graff wan an avid outdoorsman that loved to hunt and fish. He belonged to Batavia Archery Club, Batavia Rod & Gun Club and was a NYS Bow Hunters Education Instructor. 

His family will fondly remember him as a master gardener. Joe loved classic cars and restored a 1967 Pontiac GTO with is son. He was a family man that loved to be around his children and grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Geraldine A. (Miller) Graff of Batavia; children, Caryn (Randy) Havens of Batavia, Joseph M. (Erin) Graff of Stafford, Kristen (Kevin) Brown of Pittsford; siblings, Joan (Ron) Gerhardt, Phyllis (David) Krais both of Florida, William Graff of Georgia, sister-in-law, Rosemary Graff of Warsaw, 7 grandchildren, Cameron, Tyler, Gabrielle, Gianna, Lila, Aden and Adley, along with several nieces and nephews.  

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, July 31, 2024 from 4 to 7pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020. A 9:30am Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, August 1, 2024 at Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020.

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

David W. Chudoba

By Ronald Konieczny
Chudoba

David W. Chudoba, 65 of Alexander, NY passed peacefully at his own home on July 27, 2024 following a short illness. 

David was born May 26, 1959 in Batavia, NY, son of the late Edward Walter and the late Mary Jane (Howard) (Chudoba) Carr. 

Following his U.S Army Reserve from 1982 through 1989 as an E2 Private, David worked at Bennett Manufacturing in Alden, New York for over 35 years retiring in 2021. 

David's passions included large restoration projects from vehicles to building structures such as his koi pond, greenhouse and tractor. He embraced his love for nature by engaging in bird watching and feeding his many koi fish, and hunting when he could. David took pleasure in moments spent with his children, grandchildren and great- grandchildren. His love for his 4 children was unmatched and he took great pride in each of their life accomplishments. 

David is survived by his fiancée of 24 years Diane M. Harris of Lancaster, New York. Children, Megan (Michael) Reome of Moira New York, Rachel Chudoba of North Fort Myers, Florida, Catherine Chudoba of Batavia, New York and Benjamin D. Chudoba (Samantha Godlove) of Batavia, New York. Grandchildren Hayley Babcock, Hunter Babcock, Evan Cummings, Avery, Autumn and Teegan Godlove Chudoba, 3 great-grandchildren Karsyn Babcock, Asher Peets, and Harper Furnace. Surviving siblings, Cindy Chudoba of Alexander, Nancy Forsyth of Batavia, Kristan (Franklin) Nash of Webster and Scott (Len Cercone) of Buffalo, along with three nephews and a niece. 

In lieu of services, family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of his life on Wednesday July 31st, 2024 from 5-8pm at his home in Alexander. Contact Cindy at cltreasures@yahoo.com for location. 

Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in David's memory 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.

 

 

Suzanne M. Smith

By Joshua Smith
Suzanne M. Smith

Suzanne M. Smith, 66, of Stafford, passed away on July 24, 2024.

Suzanne was born December 29, 1957 in Batavia, the daughter of the late Walter and Josephine (Moore) Kalicki.

Suzanne loved being with her family, especially her grandson which was her pride and joy.  She enjoyed feeding and watching the birds, loved her Pioneer Woman and Tea Cup Collects and was a loyal Curse of Oak Island Acorn.  She was the head of front office at Kings Department Store.

Surviving her husband, David Smith; her sons, Walter (Megan) Smith and Daniel "Disney Buddy" Smith; grandson, Isaiah "Pookie Pie" Smith; a brother, Douglas Kalicki; sister and brothers-in-law, Sharon Smith, William (Beth) Smith, Jeffery (Penny Erlich) Smith, Stephen (Mary) Smith and several nieces and nephews.

Calling hours are Thursday, August 1 from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street in Batavia, where her funeral will be held on Friday, August 2 at 11:00 a.m.  She will be laid to rest in Stafford Rural Cemetery.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Tunnel to Towers Foundation, www.t2t.org or to the Stafford Volunteer Fire Department,6153 Main Street, Stafford, NY 14143.  

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

Thomas A. Mika, Sr.

By Ronald Konieczny
Mika

Thomas A. Mika, Sr., 83, of Darien, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, at his home. Born on January 26, 1941, in Buffalo, NY, he was the beloved son of the late Walter and Helen Uzydegan Mika. 

Tom proudly served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard, with assignments in California, Japan, and a memorable two years at Stepping Stones Lighthouse on Long Island Sound. He dedicated 22 years of his career to RCA Service Company in Cheektowaga, followed by nine years as a night security guard at The Genesee County Nursing Home. 

A man of many interests, Tom enjoyed reading the countless books in his home library, doing puzzles, and building intricate models of boats and ships. He was also a fountain of knowledge on 1950s Rock ‘N Roll trivia. Above all, Tom cherished his family, delighting in every moment spent with his grandchildren and great-granddaughter. Tom's love for his four children was boundless, and he took immense pride in each of their accomplishments. 

Tom is survived by his devoted wife of 58 years, Ro Mika, and their children: Thomas Mika, Jr., Matthew Mika, Jill-Marie Mika, and Andrew Mika. He is also survived by his sister, Marcia Stevens, four grandchildren, and a great-granddaughter. 

He was predeceased by his brothers, Walter “Mike” Mika, Jr. and James Mika. 

A Mass and Military Honor ceremony will be held at the VA Cemetery in Pembroke at a later date to honor Tom's life and service.

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.

 

 

James Leslie Williams

By LaVern Falcone

James Leslie Williams (Luke), age 77, of Churchville, passed away peacefully on July 25, 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Born on October 28, 1946, in Batavia, New York. Jim lived a life marked by dedication to service, love for his family, and passion for shooting.  

flag

   As a young man, Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army. After completing his military service, he returned home and dedicated over 40 years to a career in the Tool and Dye Industry.

     Jim was more than a veteran and a Tool and Die maker; he was a devoted life partner and father. Preceded in death by his parents, James H. Williams and Genevieve (Antinore) Williams. He is survived by his beloved life partner of 30 years, Juanita Lovria; his son, James (Dyane) Williams, brother, Gary (Luke) and Ginnie Williams, nieces and nephews, Leah (Harold) White, Gary J. Williams, Tracy (Timothy) Kehoe, and several great nieces and nephews. Jim was a pillar of strength and a beacon of unconditional love for his family.

     He was an active member of his local Legion 575, the Northwoods Sportsman’s Association Inc. and a mentor to veterans. Jim never lost his drive to support his brothers and sisters in arms. He spent countless hours volunteering, sharing stories, and lending a compassionate ear to those who needed it most. His community involvement extended to The National Honor Guard, where he played a major role in recruiting new members, who have performed over 400 funerals at the WNY National Cemetery.

     Jim had a passion for the outdoors and could often be found fishing at the local lake. His wisdom, warmth, and generous spirit touched everyone who knew him.

     Family and friends may call on Monday, July 29 from 11 AM ~ 1 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc, 8700 Lake St. Rd. (Rt. 19), LeRoy. Funeral Services will be held at 2:00 PM at Stone Church Presbyterian Church, 7549 S. Lake Rd. (Rt. 19), Bergen, followed by interment at Stone Church Cemetery with military honors. 

     In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Crossroads House, 11 Liberty St., P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021 in Jim's memory. www.crossroadshouse.com

     James Leslie William's legacy of service, love, and kindness will forever remain in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

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

Cheryl E. Hobbs

By LaVern Falcone

On Monday, July 8, Cheryl E. Hobbs, 70, of Le Roy, NY, passed away unexpectedly at Unity Hospital, with her daughter, Amy (Hobbs) Mayne, and son in law, Dan Mayne at her side.   

cheryl hobbs

   A longtime employee of Dr. Lapple (Place Eye Care), many will remember her kind and caring ways as she made each person feel seen, heard, and valued. She is survived by 7 granddaughters, 1 grandson, 1 great-grandaughter, a great-grandson arriving soon, and many nieces and nephews. She is predeceased by her husband, Steven Stappenbacher, her former husband, Earl Hobbs, her parents, Hugh and Doris Hartgrove of Pavilion, NY, and her siblings Patricia (Fritz), Robert, Linda, Edward, and Marcia.

     A quiet woman in public, Cheryl had a delightful sense of humor that came out with those she knew best; she could get us laughing to tears. She passed on her love of dancing, cooking, reading, giving funny voices to pets, creativity, sewing, crafting, birdwatching, and gift giving. Her listening ear, tender heart, and deep wisdom will be greatly missed until we see her again in heaven. 

     A private gathering will be held at the family’s convenience. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to www.bluemoonmeadows.org/donate.html in her honor. (This is a rescue organization for orphaned pets.)

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

Helen L. Pratt

By T.J. Woodward
p

Helen L. Pratt, 82, of Oakfield, passed away on Wednesday July 24, 2024 at the United Memorial Medical Center. She was born in Batavia on November 21, 1941 to the late Lloyd and Josephine (Almond) Washburn. In addition to her parents, Helen is predeceased by her husband; Richard C. Pratt; daughter Stacey Pratt. 

She is survived by her children; Cindy (David) Meier of Alexander, Betty (Jesse) Van Dorn of FL., Rhonda (Wesley) Fraley of NC., and Johna Miller of Angola; sister Eleanor (late Ira) McCoy of Elba; 21 grandchildren, along with many great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. 

Helen worked for 24 years at St. Jerome’s Hospital as a Housekeeper. She loved family gatherings, going out to eat, her flowers, watching NCIS and was a huge collector of all kinds of knick-knacks. She was a former member of the Batavia City Church. 

Friends and family are invited to call on Tuesday, July 30, 2024 from 12:00-1:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020. A 1:00PM Funeral Service will immediately 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.

Ellene Walker

By T.J. Woodward

Ellene Walker, 87, of Batavia passed away on July 22, 2024 at Premier Genesee Nursing Home. She was born in Buffalo on October 5, 1936 to Alfred and Evelyn Guy. 

She is survived by her children; Eldon John (Jennifer) Farrington Jr., Jeffrey Farrington, Richard Farrington, Gregory Farrington, Keith Farrington, Kevin Farrington, Cheryl (Patrick) Coonen and Erin Farrington.

There will be no prior calling hours. A 10:30AM Graveside Service will be held on Friday July 26, 2024 at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Batavia. 

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.

Elmer D. Andrews

By T.J. Woodward

Elmer D. Andrews, 71, of East Aurora, formerly of Geneseo, passed away on July 10, 2024 at Absolute Care Nursing Facility. He was born in Batavia on May 28, 1953 to Mrs. And Mrs. Warren Andrews. 

Elmer was a Heavy Equipment Operator at The Dolomite Group in Gates for many years and was a United States Navy veteran. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A 1:00PM Graveside Service will be held on Monday July 29th at the Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu. 

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.

Gay P. Dyrbala

By Ronald Konieczny
Dyrbala

Gay P. Dyrbala, 66 of Alexander, went home to her Lord and Savior on Sunday (July 21, 2024) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born January 16, 1958 in Batavia, a daughter of the late Leslie and Joyce Wienke Gabbey.

Gay graduated from Pembroke High School in 1976 and then attended Marion S. Whelon School of Nursing. She was a devoted nurse at United Memorial Medical Center for 47 years. She was a member of Grace Baptist Church, as well as a lifetime member of the WNY Gas and Steam Engine Association. She was an avid reader and enjoyed her crossword puzzle books and watching the birds at her feeder.

She is survived by her loving husband of 42 years, Ronald W. Dyrbala and their eight children, Patricia (Andrew) Bunk, Rebecca (David) Bartz, Joshua (Ashley) Dyrbala, Amanda (Justin) Cole, Peter (LeAnne) Dyrbala, Elizabeth (Eric) Augustyn, Zachary (Kaitlyn) Dyrbala, and Joseph (Emma Nugent) Dyrbala. Her grandchildren, Paisley, Lucas, Maddison, Kaitlyn, Hannah, Chloe, Hailey, Brayden, Harrison, Waylon and Peter Jr. “PJ”. She also leaves behind her three loving dogs Yukon, Morty and Sadie, along with her grand pups Buster, Archie, and Charlie. Gay is also survived by her sister Faith and brothers Guy and Mark, along with many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by her grandson Peyton Leslie and nephew Jeremy Gabbey.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Sunday (July 28th) from 2-5:30pm at the Grace Baptist Church, 238 Vine St, Batavia, NY, where a funeral service will be Monday at 10am. She will be laid to rest in Mt. Pleasant Cemetery in Alexander, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to 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, DIRECTOR.

 

 

Authentically Local