Obituaries

July 15, 1986 — February 7, 2025

Amy (Ari) Elizabeth Smith, a selfless, fun, eccentric, and loving daughter, sister, aunt, niece, granddaughter, and friend to so many, passed away on February 7, 2025.

Originally from Attica, New York, and more recently, a resident of Baldwinsville, New York, Amy was born on July 15, 1986, and was a 2004 graduate of Attica Senior High School and the University at Buffalo in 2008. Amy will forever remain a beloved daughter of Dennis (Patti) Smith and Diane (Morse) Hawn, sister to Krystal (Mike) Ripa, Kate (Sean) MacLane, and Holly (Justin) DiPirro, and aunt to Evan and Lucas Ripa and Caleb and Millie MacLane.

Amy loved all animals (domestic or otherwise), she loved playing board and video games, reading, cuddles, and laughing with her nephews and niece, cooking and baking, and spending time with her friends and family.

We invite friends and loved ones to celebrate Amy’s life with us on Friday, July 18, 2025, from 4:00 - 7:00 PM with a brief service at 6:30 PM at Marley Funeral Home at 135 Main Street in Attica, New York.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be made to the Attica SPCA.

LeRoy ~ Ronald E. Stella, age 71, of Munson Street, passed away on Thursday, February 27 at The Villages of Orleans.

     He was born May 9, 1953 in Batavia, a son of Lois Stevens Stella and the late Edward Stella.   

  Ron will be remembered for his love of baseball, softball, bowling and fishing. He was an avid NY Yankees fan and enjoyed spending time with his family and friends.

     In addition to his mother, Lois Stella, Ron is survived by his wife, Audrey Paladino Stella; daughters, Melissa (Cory) Merkel and Angela (Cory) Davis; grandson, Jameson Davis; siblings, Kathy (Tom) Roland, Mark (Sue) Stella, Ed Stella and Sandy Hildebrandt, along with several nieces and nephews.

     He was also predeceased by his brother-in-law, Robert Hildebrandt.

     Family and friends may call on Saturday, March 8 from 2 ~ 4 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake Street Road, LeRoy. There will be a Celebration of Ron’s Life starting at 4:30 PM at Tracy B’s Market and Farm Brewery, 8041 East Main Road, LeRoy.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Crossroads House, PO Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021 www.crossroadshouse.com/donate 

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

LeRoy ~ Matthew Luckenbach, 62, passed away suddenly at ECMC on Wednesday, February 26th 2025.

     Matthew was born December 18th, 1962 in Batavia, the son of Donald and Gloria (Found) Luckenbach.   

  He was a very active member of Faith Community Church, the Northwoods Sportsman's Club and the Churchville Moose Club. He loved trapping with his son, hunting, gardening, reading, cooking, playing guitar with his family, and spending all his extra time with his children and grandchildren, along with farming at his home in LeRoy (Hawksholme Ranch).

     Surviving is his son, Caleb (Elizabeth) Luckenbach of LeRoy; daughter, Rebecca (David) Fenn of Avon; their mother, Amanda Luckenbach of Perry; grandchildren, Payton Robinson, Abigail and Zander Fenn and Dylan Luckenbach; siblings, Don (Diane) Luckenbach of Newville, Alabama, Estelle (Joe) Luckenbach of Houston, Texas and Andy (Pam) Luckenbach of Mt. Morris, along with several nieces and nephews.

     Matthew is preceded in death by his son, Kevin Luckenbach; father, Donald Luckenbach and mother, Gloria Luckenbach.

     Family and friends are invited to attend Matthews calling hours on Friday, March 7th from 4:00 -7:00 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake Street Road in LeRoy.  

     In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Faith Community Church, 8419 East Main Rd, LeRoy. 

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

Larry R. Ryan, age 74, of Varysburg, NY, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025 at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born on Monday, January 1, 1951 in Batavia, a beloved son of the late Leslie and Dorothy (Long) Ryan.

Larry proudly served his country, in the United States ARMY, during the Vietnam War. He worked and retired from Wende Correction Facility as the Maintenance Supervisor, where his strong work ethic was admired by all who knew him. A true craftsman at heart, he spent his life tackling big projects with a passion for building and improving whatever he touched. Whether it was a home renovation or maintaining his beloved property, Larry approached each task with dedication and skill. Known for his generous spirit, he was always ready to lend a hand to family, friends, and neighbors in need.

Surviving is his beautiful wife, Mary Ryan of Varysburg; two beloved daughters, Tessa (Heath) Van Riper and Tamra (Gari) McClain of New Mexico; step-daughters Jessica (James) Brandon and Elizabeth Mendel; five cherished grandchildren, Ethan, Madi, Aiden, Kolby, and Avery; siblings, Rodney Ryan and Patti Toal; loyal furry companions, Dexter (his soul mate) and Boz.
 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street, Attica, New York 14011. There are no services at this time, however there will be a celebration of life at a later date.
 

Donations may be made in Larry’s memory to huntershope.org.

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

Oakfield, NY – Paul B. Laney, a cherished father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed away peacefully on Saturday, February 22, 2025, at the age of 86. Born on April 7, 1938, in Batavia, Paul was a lifelong resident of the area.

A graduate of Elba Central School, Paul dedicated his professional life to Niagara Mohawk in Batavia where he worked as a skilled Substation Technician. His career was marked by hard work, dedication, and a steadfast commitment to excellence.

Paul was married to the late Judith G. Laney, and together they built a loving family that was his pride and joy. He is survived by his sons Brian (Karen) Laney of Summerfield, North Carolina, David (Lisa) Laney, Sr. of Basom, and Raymond (Theresa) Laney of Oakfield. His legacy continues through his nine grandchildren, Kellie (Rob) Buchanan, Sonya (Jason) Laney-Davis, Ethan (Ashley) Laney, Alicia (Dan) Jachimowicz, David "Buddy" (Katie) Laney, Jr., Dennille (Matt) Marble, Cassandra (Will) Griffin, Michala Laney, and Mackenzie Laney, as well as his nine great-grandchildren. Paul is also survived by his beloved sister, Margaret Tyler of Batavia, and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Margaret Laney, his wife Judith, and his siblings Loretta Brown, Lawrence Laney, and James Laney.

Paul made the brave decision to enter hospice care at Medina Memorial Hospital, choosing to spend his final days in peace and comfort. The family expresses their deepest gratitude to the hospice team for their compassionate care.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family, honoring Paul's wishes for a personal and intimate remembrance. He will be laid to rest in St. Cecilia's Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to your local hospice organization in memory of Paul, supporting the invaluable services they provide to families in need. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Burdett & Sanford Funeral Home. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.burdettandsanford.com.

He will be remembered for his warmth, integrity, and unwavering love for his family. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Arthur G. Breton III “Artie”, 17 of Corfu, passed away suddenly on Sunday, February 23, 2025.

He was born August 2, 2007 in Batavia, NY, a son of Adrea Wild Breton of Corfu and the late Arthur G. Breton Jr. 

Artie was currently in his senior year at Pembroke High School, where he attended Genesee Valley BOCES for Diesel Engine Technology. This past year he was inducted into the National Technical Honor Society. He was planning on attending Ohio State Technical School this fall where he would pursue a career as a diesel mechanic. Artie was also a member of the Pembroke High School Marching Band where he played the tuba. He enjoyed playing video games, the outdoors and being a “Big Brother” to his little brother Tim. His respectful and loving personality will definitely be missed by all who knew him.

Survivors include his mother and step-father, Andrea (Tim Leonard) Breton. Sister, Elizabeth Breton. Brothers, Andrew Breton and Tim Leonard Jr.. Step-brother, Neil Darby. Maternal grandmother, Barbara Wild. Aunts. Molly Wild, Judy Roesch, Jen Nuwer and Jenna Bressler. Uncles, Eric (Michele) Wild and Mathew Green. Also survived by many cousins.

Family and friends are invited to share condolences and memories on Thursday (February 27^th) from 5-7pm at High Point Church, 1163 Main St, Corfu, NY. A funeral service will follow visitation at 7pm.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be offered to the Pembroke High School Marching Band. 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.

Luis V. Hidalgo Jr., 71, lived in surrounding areas of his beloved Buffalo Bills, left this world the way he lived it—Fast & Furious—on Friday, February 21, 2025.

A proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Luis proudly served his country. He was a professional photographer and a licensed practical nurse (LPN), always capturing life’s moments and caring for others.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marjorie Brust Hidalgo, and his father, Luis V. Hidalgo.

Luis leaves behind his daughter, Marsha Henley; his mother, Lydia Hidalgo; and his four siblings—Dawn, Juan (Johnny), Maritza, and Evelyn. He is also survived by nieces, nephews, and many other loving family members and friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Family and friends may call on Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 4 to 8 p.m. at the C. B. Beach & Son Mortuary, Inc., 4 East Main Street, Corfu, NY. Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, March 3, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Maximilian Kolbe Church, 8656 Church Street, East Pembroke. Burial will follow at 1 pm. at the Western New York National Cemetery, 1254 Indian Falls Rd., Corfu, NY.

Mary Lee Knights, of Knowlesville, NY, entered into rest on Saturday, February 15, 2025, at the Providence Regional Hospital in Everett, WA.

Born October 27, 1944, in Tupper Lake, NY, she was the only child of the late Louis and Frances (McDonald) Gourd and stepfather, Joseph “Corky” Arsenault. Mary Lee was a graduate of Tupper Lake High School, Class of 1962 and went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from SUNY Potsdam and her master’s from The Ohio State University in 1969. On August 19, 1972, she married the late Kenneth E. Knights. Together they raised a family of three children on Kniland Dairy Farms in Knowlesville. They were well known for growing and selling giant pumpkins every fall.

Mary Lee began her career as a guidance counselor and teacher for the Medina Central School District. Later, she and the late Marlene Maier co-founded Kniland Nursery School, where she helped nurture young minds in their earliest years. Once her children were in grade school, she worked part-time at the Medicine Shoppe before becoming the Coordinator of Religious Education at St. Mary’s Parish in Medina. She also worked for BOCES and played a pivotal role in OCALS as a charter board member, where she served as past president, tutor, tutor trainer, GED tester, and evaluator. In 2023, her dedication to literacy was recognized when she received the OCALS Lighting the Way to Learning Award. A woman of deep faith, she was a devoted parishioner in all aspects of Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, St. Mary’s Church in Medina.

Mary Lee was known by those close to her as a “professional volunteer,” always ready to lend a hand or support to whomever needed it. She was active in the Medina Jayncees, Sweet Adelines barbershop quartet, Beta Sigma Phi Sorority (since 1986), Catholic Daughters in both Medina, NY and Everett, WA, and was a member of St. Mary’s Choir. A lifelong lover of swimming, she was a lifeguard in her youth, and in the 1980’s, led a successful fundraising campaign as YMCA president to establish the Lake Plains School pool. She also played a key role in organizing the annual Medina Canal Festival as a committee member. Mary Lee found joy in music, her family, community, and the friendships she built through her many activities.

Her warmth extended to all living beings, especially animals, and she always had a canine companion by her side. In recent years, her beloved dog, Jessie, was her constant and devoted friend.

Mary Lee was predeceased by her husband, Kenneth, in 2021 and her dear aunt, Eileen “Nee Nee” Trombley, in 2019. Left to cherish her memory are her three children, Chad (Randi) Knights of VA, Laura (Sean) Knights Riley and Fran (Stuart) Knights Sabin, both of Seattle, WA; four grandchildren, Skylar and Emerson Knights, Joseph and Kate Riley; and two sisters in-law, Kathryn Knights of Buffalo and Barbara Clark of Medina. She is also remembered with love by many dear friends who became like family, sharing in the joy of her life and the kindness she so freely gave.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, March 6 from 4-7PM at Cooper Funeral Home, 215 W. Center St., Medina. Her Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, March 7 at 11AM at Holy Trinity Parish, St. Mary’s Church, 211 Eagle St., Medina. Interment will be in Mt. Albion Cemetery, Albion. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Medina Scholarship Fund, PO Box 185, Medina, NY 14103 or to PAWS, 3371 Gaines Basin Rd., Albion, NY 14411. Share condolences at www.cooperfuneralhome.com.

William P. Luckenbach, 75 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing Center.

He was born February 24, 1949, in Warsaw, NY, a son of the late William and Angela LaTorto Luckenbach.

William was a U.S. Army Veteran, having served his country from 1968-1970. He was a truck driver for several years.

Survivors include his children, Anthony Luckenbach, Adam Luckenbach, Amy Luckenbach and Allison Terranova. Brother, Edgar Luckenbach. Sisters, Andrea Garcia and Cynthia Donaher. Also survived by grandchildren.

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.

Anya Rambuski, 54 passed away Sunday, February 16, 2025 as a result of a car accident. She was born in New York on February 24, 1970.  She is survived by three sisters. 

Anya was a kind and caring woman who was willing to help anyone with a need as long as it was in her power to do so. She was a much-loved member of The Church In Alexander where she started attending four years ago.  She was welcomed with open arms and quickly became part of the family volunteering in the food ministries. She was always available to help on Pop Up Pantry days and to work in the dining room during Community Dinners. When the need was made known, she stepped forward to take over the coordination of volunteers for our in-house food pantry and had recently signed up to teach Sunday School with the children. 

Anya faced many struggles throughout her life and was working to overcome many obstacles; however, she was always willing to help and aid others. She had a large and diverse group of friends in the Batavia area including Maxiene and Don among others, and referred to her church friends as her family.  Anya was a lover of all animals and leaves behind her beloved dog Sadie along with many broken-hearted people. 

A Celebration of Life will be held at The Church In Alexander, 3389 Church St., Alexander, NY 14005 on Saturday, March 1, 2025, at 11:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Church In Alexander Food Pantry or the Genesee County Animal Shelter c/o Genesee County Sheriff's Office, 165 Park Rd, Batavia, NY 14020. Expressions of sympathy can 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.

Joan F. Barnett-Samsel, 73 of Batavia, went home to be with her Lord and Savior on Friday (February 21, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born June 13, 1951 in Lewisburg, PA, a daughter of the late Jonas and Ferne Knittle Barnett.

Joan was the operator and owner of Home Care Helpers, who cared for numerous individuals throughout this region.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Samsel of Batavia. Children, Scott Lardner, Shawn Lardner and Amy Rasmussen. Sister, Teressa (Frank) Stump. Also survived by several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was the sister of the late Barbara Gill and Frank Barnett.

Funeral 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.

Caledonia / Greece ~ Vicky Marie SinClair, age 44, passed away suddenly on Feb. 18, 2025. 

     She was born July 17, 1980 in Rochester, the daughter of the late Pamela M. SinClair and the granddaughter of Marie SinClair Manley.

     Vicky graduated from Caledonia-Mumford Central School in 1998, where she enjoyed cheerleading and social activities.  Vicky loved her daughter, Stella, beyond words and maintained daily contact with her grandmother, who adored her.  

   As a young woman, Vicky was diagnosed with a chronic illness which prevented her from reaching the potential she was capable of.

     Vicky will be missed by her family and friends who stood by her and held her in their prayers. 

     She is survived by her daughter, Estelle Marie Golden; maternal grandmother, Marie SinClair Manley (Bill Goodburlet); aunt, Becky (Mark) Schroeder; uncle, Robert (Kristin) SinClair, Jr.; cousins, Brian (Kela) SinClair, Mark (Emilee) Schroeder, Robert (Hannah) SinClair, Stephanie (Jon) Hann, and Sarah (Chris) Schroeder and dear friend, Joshua McGinley.

     In addition to her mother, Pamela, she was predeceased by her maternal grandfather, Robert SinClair.

     Family and friends may call on Wednesday, February 26 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy.  A Celebration of Vicky’s Life will be held on Thursday, February 27 at 12:30 PM at the LeRoy Country Club, 7759 E. Main Road (Rt. 5), LeRoy.

     In lieu of flowers, contributions in memory of Vicky are suggested to Teresa House, 21 Highland Road, Geneseo, N.Y. 14454  www.teresahouse.org/donation

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

Melissa L. Smith “Missi”, 69 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Wednesday (February 19, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

She was born April 11, 1955 in Batavia, NY, a daughter of the late Richard and Doris Sauter Schildwaster.

Missi was a graduate of Notre Dame High School where she followed in her mothers footsteps and started working for the Williams Law Firm in Batavia. Upon having her children, she switched places and became a stay at home mom to care for her family. She was very involved at St. James Episcopal Church with the Prayer Shawl Ministry, choir, dementia respite, pie baking and fund raising. She enjoyed to knit and crochet, but her pride and joy was her family, especially her grandson Dominic. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Survivors include her husband, Robert J. Smith Jr. of Batavia. Daughters, Amy (Peter) Celentano of Bergen, Megan Hausler of Maine and Kelsey Smith of Pennsylvania. Cherished grandson, Dominic. Brother, Scott (Judy) Schildwaster of Batavia. Nieces and nephews also survive.

She was predeceased by her beloved canine, JoeJoe.

No prior visitation. Family and friends are cordially invited to a Celebration of Life Service on Tuesday (Feb. 25^th), 10am at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 E. Main Street, Batavia, NY.

Memorial contributions in her name may be offered to the ministry at St. James Episcopal Church. 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.

Patricia A. Rice, passed away on Monday February 17, 2025.  She was born on December 30^th, 1936, in Bergen, NY.

After leaving the family farm in Byron, Patricia became a stewardess for Capitol Airlines, predecessor to today's United, where she met the love of her life, Robert Rice. They married on September 28^th, 63. She is survived by her husband Robert of 61 years where they shared love, golf and travel with their 2 boys, Kyle (Debi) Rice of East Bethany and Jody (Tracy) Rice of Batavia. 

Predeceased are her parents William and Gertrude Krause. They had 6 children, William (deceased), Robert (Deceased) and Delores (Deceased), Surviving, Marty (Donna) of Bergen and Joan of Batavia. Many nieces and nephews she cherished.

Pat was an accomplished musician singing Capella harmonies with the Sweet Adelines for many years.  Complimenting her singing skills, she also enjoyed playing trumpet, guitar, and the piano.  One of Pat's greatest joys was the game of golf. As a long-term member of the Batavia Country Club, she won multiple Ladies Championships and along with Bob's golf skills, many couples events.  At her prime, she could give many of the men a run.  She loved not only her golf but spending beautiful summer days outside with friends along with the challenges of the sport.

After 25 years of service as a school bus driver for Byron-Bergen, culminating as the district Director of Transportation, she retired and relocated to Florida with Robert to enjoy many more sunny days on the greens.

Services will be announced at a later date. 

In lieu of flowers, Pat requests any donations to be sent to the St. Jude’s Children Hospitals and Good Shepherd Hospice, 2140 E. County Rd. 540 A Lakeland Fl. 33813. To leave an online message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main Street, Batavia, NY 14020

Batavia - Judy Ann (Hoy) DuBois, 89 of Batavia passed away on Thursday (February 13, 2025) at United Memorial Medical Center.

Ms. DuBois was born January 19, 1936 in Buffalo, a daughter of the late Harry and Edna (Warstiz) Hoy, Sr.

Judy grew up with a large family in Bennington, who she truly loved. She loved sharing stories about her younger years. Judy worked numerous years at Cummins and Bricker to provide for herself and her son. When someone needed something she was always there to lend a helping hand. Her radiant smile would light up a room. She enjoyed her time with the Bennington Senior group playing cards and eating desserts. She will live on in our hearts.

Surviving is her son, Rick (Amanda) Hoy of Wyoming; grandson, Anthony Hoy; sisters, Annette (late Louis) Miller of Bennington, and Karen (late Don) Balduf of Batavia; sister-in-law, Sherry Hoy of Bennington. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

In death, Judy is reunited with her parents; brothers, Harry (late Louise) Hoy, Jr., and James Hoy; sister, Marcia (late Donald) Linsey.

A private memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family. Burial will be in Sacred Heart of Jesus Cemetery in Bennington. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Wyoming County SPCA, PO Box 269, Attica, New York 14011. Arrangements for Judy were entrusted to the care of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Online condolences at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.