Obituaries

Paul Starowicz Sr., of Batavia, New York passed away on Monday, January 10, 2022, at the age of 95.

He was born in Elba, New York on December 4, 1926, to father Paul Starowicz and mother Anna Stanek.  Paul was the youngest of 7 brothers (Chester, Henry, Rudolph, Al, Edmund, Steve, Leo), and one sister (Pauline Pcionek).

He traveled around the entire world at age 18 while serving in the Army during WWII.  Paul spent nearly 35 years working as the manager for the Noah’s Ark/National Auto store in Batavia.  His actions throughout his life were guided by bringing honor to the family name.  He was always well versed on current events and was sharp as a tack right up to his passing.  Paul was a devoted Buffalo Bills fan.  He enjoyed visits to the family farm. 

Paul was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend.  He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Lottie (Wilkosz); children Gary (Deborah), James (Mary K), and Paul Jr. (Laura); grandchildren Sara (Brandon Doll), Becky, Kate, Lauren, Elizabeth, and Ryan; and great-grandchildren included Reece, Chloe, Thea, Reid, and Claire.  Also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.

Due to Covid, there will be a private funeral for the immediate family.  A Celebration of Life is being planned for the future.

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.

 

 

 

Holley - Mary Kathleen Deneen, 77 of Holley passed away on Sunday, January 9, 2022 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, New York.

She was born Saturday, January 6th, 1945 in Buffalo, New York a daughter of the late Donald Deneen and Aurelia Ambrose Deneen.

Mary is survived by her "mom" Dawn "Barb" (Late Jim "Poppy") Werth, Gwynne Phillips from Lifetime Assistance; sisters, Donna (Thomas, Sr.) Fowler and Peggy (Late Joseph) Wik; special friends, Elaine and Rosalie along with nieces and nephews. Her family wishes to extend their sincere appreciation and gratitude to her Lifetime Assistance Family who gave her a loving and full life.

There are no prior visiting hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. She will be laid to rest in St. Mary of the Assumption Cemetery in Lancaster.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Lifetime Assistance, Inc., Attn: Maria Rugg, 133 State Street, Brockport, New York 14420. In the memo line, please write “Family Care Program”. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street, Batavia.

David Michael Giles   9/23/89  ~  1/8/2022
He left this earth peacefully with loved ones at his side at ECMC early in the morning on Saturday the 8th of January.
Loving Son of Anita and the late Dennis Giles and life partner of Charmaine Bartolomei and Bonus Dad to Malena Bartolomei.  He left behind many family and friends who loved and will always miss him.
There will be no calling hours.  A Memorial Service at Alabama Basom United Methodist Church will be held by invitation only.  Watch FB for a celebration notice.
Donations can be made to Surfrider.org.     ‘Save Our Waters.’
Urging you to celebrate his life not death.  He once wrote:
“I hope we never let our inner child go and never forget how to dream.”
Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com
Arrangements for David were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868. 

Batavia - George Emerson Wood, age 81, died peacefully at his home on December 27, 2021.  Son of the late George S. Wood and Rowena Kendall Wood, he was born on March 2, 1940 in Batavia NY. 

He is survived by his son, Peter Wood from Geneva; brother Charles (Teresa) Wood of Churchville; sister, Rowena (Jim) Wood of Monterey, California; nieces, Stacey Steffens and Madeline Patterson; nephews, Steven Klinge and Charles Kendall Wood.

He was preceded in death by brother, Denniston K. Wood of Batavia.

Mr. Wood was a retired NY State trooper and was active in SCOPE. He loved mechanics of all kinds and was always willing to help. George was an avid storyteller who left us all the wiser and often “in stitches.” He will be greatly missed.

Private services will be held at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to The Gateway Home, 91 Main St. Attica, NY 14011. 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.

Nunzio Ferrara, 79 of Holley, formerly of Perry, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family on Sunday, January 9, 2022 at his home. He was born October 5, 1942 in Warsaw, to the late Samuel and Mary (Cicero) Ferrara. He is preceded in death by his only brother Tony Ferrara.

Mr. Ferrara lived his life serving the Lord, reading and teaching his bible. He retired from construction and spent many of his years as a Grade Foreman. Mr. Ferrara was an avid New York Yankees Fan, he loved baseball, drinking Pepsi and taking care of his yard. His family was everything to him, especially his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife JoAnn (Blowers) Ferrara of Holley; children, Christopher Ferrara of Holley, Mariann (Michael) Fleming of Bergen, Jean Ferrara of Gates, Ann Ferrara of Greece, Tammy Jean Bowman of Perry; 3 grandchildren, Riley (Eric) Gersch, Jessica Fleming and Joshua Fleming, along with several nieces and nephews.

Friends are invited to a 2:00 PM Celebration of his Life on Thursday, January 13, 2022 at Eaton-Watson Funeral Home, LLC, 98 North Main St, Perry, NY 14530. He will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Perry.

***Masks will be required at the Service***

Memorials may be made to The Father’s Heart – Rochester’s Mobile Kitchen for Christ, www.thefathersheartroc.org. To leave a message of condolence please visit www.eatonwatsonfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Eaton-Watson Funeral Home, LLC, 98 North Main Street, Perry, New York 14530.

Stafford – Garth Paul Swanson, age 57, passed away on Wednesday, January 5, 2022 at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Garth was born on January 18, 1964, in Jamestown, a son of the late George H.K. Swanson and C. Mercedes Ecklund Swanson.

A 1982 graduate of Jamestown High School, Garth received his Associates Degree from Jamestown Community College, his BA in History from St. Bonaventure University and his MA in History from Ohio University.   Garth was a professor at Genesee Community College since 1992 and in 2004 joined the faculty in the Social Science Department teaching History. He earned Chancellor's Awards in Faculty Service and Excellence in teaching receiving the NISOD Award for Excellence in Adjunct teaching. This March, Garth would have celebrated his 30^th year teaching at Genesee Community College. In the summer months, he served as a consultant for the Advanced Placement Services, grading AP History Exams.

Garth was most in his element in front of a classroom full of students. His love for teaching history was evident in his classroom style. He taught with an infectious energy bringing history to life, often acting out historical events.  You might pass his classroom and see him standing on a chair or expressing an idea with his hand stretched out as his teaching style was very animated.  He loved seeing the lightbulb go off in a student’s eyes and that “aha” moment when they understood and made historical connections.

Garth served as the Town of Stafford Historian, was a member of The Stafford Historical Society, Vice-President of the Stafford Rural Cemetery Association and was a member of the Holland Purchase Historical Society. Garth enjoyed camping, cycling, hiking and spending time at Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center. Garth was a huge fan of the Chicago Cubs and was very proud of his Swedish Heritage.

Although born and raised at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Jamestown, Garth quickly found a home at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Stafford where he was married, had his sons baptized and watched them grow.  He loved his sons with a ferocious passion; fighting for them at every turn.  He was exceptionally proud of the men they were becoming.  He was a tireless advocate for those in need; always believing that the right thing must be done. He used his gifts and passion always in the service of others. Garth enjoyed raising money and bring awareness to childhood cancer; speaking at many events for Golisano Children’s Hospital and Camp Good Days.  They loved his annual participation in the Tour de Teddi cycling around Keuka Lake. 

He is survived by his wife, Amy Swanson; his sons, Anders Swanson, Beckett Swanson and Cooper Swanson, all at home; his brothers, Kevin Swanson of Frewsburg and Mark (Laura Csellak) Swanson of Jamestown; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Linda (Gerald) Call of Stafford; his aunt, Millicent Atkins of Byron, his uncle, Curt (Jeanne) Ecklund; nieces, nephews and cousins. Garth is also survived by special friends who are like family Christine, Tim, Tore, Dave, Grandma Lois, Larry, Laurel, Kevin and his AP grading crew and his beloved GCC family.

His family wishes to extend special thanks to Peggy Weissend, RN and Sara Schaffer, NP for their amazing care given to Garth and his family.

Friends may call on Friday, January 14, 2022 from 4 pm to 7 pm at St. James Episcopal Church, 405 East Main Street, Batavia, where his funeral service will be held at 10:30 am Saturday, January 15, 2022. Although his family hoped to have services at their church in Stafford, it is important to make sure they can ensure social distancing while celebrating Garth’s life. He will be laid to rest in Stafford Rural Cemetery. 

In lieu of flowers, please consider memorials in Garth’s name to Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center, Inc. (LCLC) 5013 Route 430, Bemus Point, NY 14712, Camp Good Days & Special Times P.O. Box 665 Mendon, NY 14506 or St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, P.O. Box 786, Stafford, NY 14143. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street, Batavia. Please note masks will be required for all services and social distancing is strongly encouraged by Garth’s family.

Deborah A. Baker, 63, of LeRoy, passed away on December 29, 2021 at Premier Genesee Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation in Batavia.

Deborah was born December 23, 1958 in Utica, a daughter of the late Roland and Sandra (Barnard) Marvin.

Deborah enjoyed being outdoors, especially the waterfalls.  

Surviving are her brother, Michael Marvin of Bergen; sons, Greg Baker of Rochester and Jason Baker of Churchville and one grandchild.

Preceded in death by her husband, Steve Baker.

There will be no calling hours or funeral service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Genesee Cancer Assistance, 127 North Street, Batavia, NY 14020,  www.geneseecancerassistance.org/donate/.

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

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

Richard M. Rudolph, 96 of Akron, went to meet his Savior on Friday (January 7, 2022) at Erie County Medical Center.

He was born March 23, 1925 in Bennington, NY a son of the late Frederick and Mildred Michel Rudolph.

As a young man he worked on his family farm and then served as Town of Pembroke Highway Superintendent for 32 years followed by 18 years as a Genesee County Legislator for districts 3 and 4.  Richard was a strong, loving, generous, caring family man.  At 96 years old he was still an active member of Indian Falls United Methodist church serving on various committees.  He was a member of Lodges IOOF and Masons.  He was a member of Gideons International since 1980 and served his Lord with passion. 

He is survived by his loving wife of 73 years, Jean Klotzbach Rudolph of Akron. Children, Mona Rudolph, of Akron, Kenneth (Jinner) Rudolph of Cary, NC, Betty (Boots) Hall of Batavia, and Tracy (Laurie) Rudolph of Batavia, 10 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.  A sister, Myra Phelps of Basom, brother, Donald Rudolph of Bennington, sisters-in-law, Eleanor Kreutter, of Perry, Kathryn (Roger) Thurber of Basom, Ellen (Jim) Carey of Sun City, AZ, and Jeanne Klotzbach of Oakfield.  Also survived by numerous loving nieces and nephews

He was the brother of the late Lois Pond.

Family and friends are cordially invited to share thoughts, condolences and fond memories on Friday (January 14^th) from 2-9 pm at the Indian Falls United Methodist Church, 7908 Alleghany Rd, Corfu, NY where a funeral service will be held Saturday at 11:00 am.

He will be laid to rest in the Old Buffalo Road Cemetery, Pembroke, NY.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Gideons International, Genesee Camp, PO Box 50, Batavia, NY 14020. 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.

 

 

  Tonia Marie Zaremski, 73, of Batavia, NY passed away on January 6, 2022 peacefully at home. She was born September 30, 1948, in Batavia, NY.

After dedicating over 40 years to being an Office Manager, Tonia ended her career when she retired from Godwin Pumps. She graduated from Batavia High School before attending college at University of Miami.

Tonia and Mike enjoyed spending summers at their camp in the Adirondacks and winters at their cottage in Tennessee, where she found great joy in being outdoors. She loved being surrounded by family and friends. Tonia never failed to be selfless and to brighten every room she walked into with her positive energy. 

She is survived by her life partner Mike Zaso, children, Kathleen (Pete) Cecere, Michael (Katherine) Dempski, Jennifer (Billy) Hitchcock, Sheri (Phil) Cofield, Mike (Anne) Zaso Jr, siblings, Ed (Holly) Zaremski, Felicia (Tom) Cecere, Jeremy (MaryAnn) Lang, Deb (John) Konieczny, Jenny (Ike) Behe, Rick (Niki) Lang, Tim (Helen) Lang, 14 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren. Tonia is also survived by her many nephews and nieces.

Tonia was preceded in death by her parents Edward Zaremski and Sophie Zaremski Lang, Step-father Gerald Lang, and brother Richard Zaremski. 

There will be no prior calling hours. A 10:00AM Funeral Mass will be held on Tuesday January 11, 2022 at Ascension Parish 19 Sumner St. Batavia, NY 14020.

Memorials may be made to Genesee Cancer Assistance 127 North St. Batavia, NY 14020 or Alzheimer’s Association of WNY www.alz.org. To share memories or condolences please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home & Cremation Co. Inc. 

 

Marianne R. Schlenker, 65 of Batavia, passed away in her sleep on Wednesday (January 5, 2022) at her residence.

She was born February 6, 1956 in Buffalo, NY, a daughter of the late Edward and Alice Koch Schlenker.

Marianne enjoyed painting and making crafts.

Survivors include a sister, Susan (late James) Wierda of Batavia. Brothers, Edward (Terri) Schlenker of Ohio and Mark (Jane) Schlenker of Kansas. Also survived by nieces and nephews.

Private 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.

 

 

Larry R. Frens, age 69 of Wass Road Wyoming, passed away peacefully at home, Monday, January 3rd 2022, with his beloved wife at his side. Larry was born in Batavia, October 7, 1952 a son of the late LaMonte S. and Laura J. McCabe Frens. Larry graduated from Batavia High School in 1969 and went on to earn a degree from Genesee Community College. He worked for 32 years at the Oatka Milk Plant, in Batavia, as a machinist before retiring in 2014. Larry was an accomplished vegetable gardener and landscaper. He had volunteered gratefully and compassionately at the Wyoming County Animal Shelter before his illness. He would Winter over waiting for the sun to reappear so he could get back outside and tend to his garden. Larry was a hard dedicated worker, had an unbelievable  sense of humor and wit. He loved animals and was dedicated endlessly to his loving family. Being a Jets fan since the 1960's, he took a lot of mocking but Larry continued to remain true to his team through all of their ups and downs and miserable performances. He also loved his Buffalo Sabres and New York Yankees.

He was preceded in death by his three brothers; Lance, Robert and Norman “Gene” Frens and a sister Lana Mower.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 43 years, Kathy L. Bishop Frens, whom he married on February 11, 1978. Also surviving is his loving daughter; Rachel (Shawn Blanc) Frens of Warsaw, a loving brother; Lindsay (Carol) Frens of Elba, a loving sister; Pauline Walker of Batavia and numerous loving nieces and nephews who were all so very important to him

A private memorial will be held in Larry's honor at the convenience of the family. Weeks Funeral Home 123 N. Main Street Warsaw has arrangements. Please visit www.weeksfuneral.com to offer condolences. Memorial contributions are requested to the Wyoming County SPCA at PO Box 269 Attica, NY 14011.

- Cinnomon Shyneque Shepherd, age 26, was called to Heaven by the Angels on December 22, 2021.

She was born on May 9, 1995 to the proud parents of Nathaniel Shepherd, Jr. and Jacqueline Colleen Shepherd in Batavia.

Cinnomon loved life and enjoyed seeing everyone around her enjoying her life with her. Cinnomon was an awesome mother and when her son Javari came into the room her face automatically light up. Cinnomon loved to sing in the church choir and praise dance. Waging War was her favorite song to praise dance to. Cinnomon’s mom gave her the nickname of "Muffy" and as she grew older she became "Badd Cinnomon" which was her own special logo.

Cinnomon is survived by her son, Javari Shamar Shepherd; mother, Jacqueline C. Shepherd; father, Nathaniel Shepherd, Jr.; brothers, Naquan J. Shepherd, Tyler S. Williams, Camron Shepherd and Shurodd Shepherd, all of Batavia, and Derrick Dunning of Columbia, South Carolina; three sisters, Imahni M. Floyd of Batavia, Shalaya Dunning and Karyanna Bell of Columbia, South Carolina; three nephews, Kaison, KyZimere and Savion and one niece Nova, all of Batavia; her grandmother, Alberta Williams of Bradenton, Florida; her grandfather, Nathaniel Shepherd, Sr., special friends, Sjohnai McCarthy and Porchea Ford of Syracuse and Keyanna Gibson; a special loving aunt, Keitha Shepherd and a host of cousins uncles, aunts and loved ones.

She is predeceased by her great-great grandmother, Lucille Williams, great-grandmother, Margaret Shannon and her mother-in-law, Carolyn Shepherd.

There are no prior visiting hours. Her memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 15, 2022 at 12:00 p.m. at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 516 Ellicott Street, Batavia.

*PLEASE NOTE CHANGE IN DATE OF SERVICES FOR CINNOMON - SERVICES HAVE BEEN CHANGED TO SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022 AT 12:00 PM*

Bergen ~ Ralph L. Robinson, age 76, of Buffalo Road, passed away late Tuesday afternoon (January 4, 2022) at Hildebrandt Hospice Care Center in Rochester.

    

He was born February 5, 1945 in Bergen, N.Y., a son of the late Carl and Helen Sherman Robinson.

     Ralph was a life long Bergen resident.  Being a retired mechanic, Ralph was known for his talented mechanical abilities and his willingness to help anyone that needed it.  He was also devoted to his gardening and always willing to share his “harvest” with family and friends.

     He will be sadly missed by his loving wife of 46 years, Barbara Lovell Robinson; his daughter, Deborah (Steve) Niedziela of Corona, CA; his sons, Eric (Christie) Robinson of Rochester, NY, Charles (Elizabeth) Robinson of Orchard Park, NY and Phillip Robinson of Bergen, NY; grandchildren, Andrew and Katherine Niedziela, Ryley, Elijah, Eloise, Annabelle, Isaiah and Levi Robinson-Carrig; daughter, Julie (Joe) Pilarski and her family of Clarence, NY; brothers, Robert (Barbara) Robinson of Churchville, NY, Melvin (Cyndy) Robinson of Eustis, FL and Jim (Laurie) Robinson of Elba, NY; sister-in-law, Shirley Robinson of Bergen, NY, brother-in-law, Bruce (Sue) Lovell of Greece, NY, along with several nieces and nephews and countless friends.

     In addition to his parents, Ralph was predeceased by his brothers, Carl and John “Jack” Robinson.

     A Celebration of Ralph’s Life will be held at a future date, time and place to be announced.

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

     Mr. Robinson and his family are being cared for by the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc. in LeRoy.  585-768-2400

Elba ~ Catherine L. Hall, age 83, of Bridge Road, passed away late Tuesday afternoon (January 4, 2022) at Strong Memorial Hospital.

   

  She was born January 10, 1938 in New Castle, PA, a daughter of the late Charles and Tressi Allshouse Smith.

     Catherine will be remembered as a great mom and grandma, who loved her family unconditionally and was always there for them for whatever they needed.  She had a strong work ethic and love for nature and the outdoors.

     She will be sadly missed by her children, Joel (Karen) Hall of Bergen and Dawn (Rick) Calkins of Batavia; grandchildren, Ethan Hall, Scott (Stephanie) Calkins, Daniel (Deanna) Calkins and Meagen (Terrance) Cranston; great-grandchildren, McKenzie, Lucas, Ezra and Elijah; sister, Mabel (Frank) Saunders of Brockport, along with nieces, nephews and dear friends.

     In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her husband, Donald Hall Sr.; her sons, Eric and Donald Jr. and her granddaughter, Kara Hall.

     Services will be private at the convenience of her family.

     In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Elba Fire Rescue, 4 South Main St., Elba, NY 14058.

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

     Mrs. Hall and her family are being cared for by the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc. in LeRoy.  585-768-2400

Paul W. Sullivan, 72 of Alexander, passed away peacefully on Monday (January 3, 2022) at the Buffalo V.A. Medical Center.

He was born April 22, 1949 in Buffalo, a son of the late William and Estelle Benbenek Sullivan.

Paul was a proud Veteran having served his country with the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War and participated in the Genesee County Joint Veterans Honor Guard.. He was employed by Chapin Manufacturing in Batavia prior to his retirement. He was a very generous person and supported many charities. Paul enjoyed riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Surviving are his brother, William Sullivan Jr. of Buffalo. Daughters, Sonia (Daniel) Lombardo of Buffalo and Clarissa (Alexander) Baez of Raleigh, NC. Grandson, Judah Baez and companion, Alice Kay Sullivan of Alexander.

There will be no prior visitation. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, only family and close friends are invited to share in his Mass of Christian Burial on Monday (Jan. 10^th), 11:00am at Ascension Parish, 19 Sumner Street, Batavia. He will be laid to rest in the Western New York National Cemetery.

Memorial contributions in Paul’s name may be made to Ascension Parish. 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.