Obituaries

Eric J. MacRae passed peacefully over the line from this world to the next on Sunday, July 28^th 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 25^th, 1947 and lived to see his 77^th 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 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, 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, 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, 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., 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 (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.  

   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.

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.   

   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, 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, 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, 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 29^th 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, 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 28^th) 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.

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.