The following obituaries are for Arkport Alumni members and area friends. We hope we have not forgotten anyone, but if we did, please send an email to help us keep our records up-to-date. Our condolences go out family and friends of these Arkport classmates and friends.
2020-2021 Alumni Deceased
Class of 1978 Bonnie Kromer Mahoney June 9, 2021
Class of 1969 Raymond Bertalon May 27, 2021
Class of 1985 Gary T. Dye April 27, 2021
Class of 1964 Nancy Kame Willard April 7, 2021
Class of 1946 Doris Odell Stewart March 4, 2011
Class of 1966 Marlene Jones Bolton March, 2021
Class of 1965 Thomas Springett February 3, 2021
Class of 1965 Kenneth G. Brutsman February 22, 2021
Class of 1950 Sally Briggs Fox December 13, 2020
Class of 1948 William T. Pryor January 29, 2021
Class of 1938 Barbara Greenlee Thomas October 20, 2019
Class of 1961 Linda McKibben Johnson January 3, 2021
Class of 1946 Mary Ann Pryor Remsen December 2, 2020
Class of 1956 Betty M. Jones December 1, 2020
Class of 1964 Sharon Northup Evans November 11, 2010
Class of 1965 Joel “Butch” McKibben October 16, 2020
Class of 1969 Sharon Smith Graham September 26, 2020
Class of 1966 Roger Griffin September 16, 2020
Class of 1962 Roger Dunham September 10, 2020
Class of 2011 Jared Green August 25, 2020
Teacher Roger Graham August 5, 2020
Class of 1986 Edward Bradoc, Jr. August 3, 2020
Class of 1955 Barbara Crossett Schirmer August 1, 2020
Class of 1977 Martin Pryor July 28, 2020
Friend Floyd Farley July 26, 2020
Class of 1985 Brian Morgan July 22, 2020
Class of 1956 Rodney Holden July 21, 2020
Class of 1959 Dwight Burger June 28, 2020
Class of 1946 Theolyn Pryor Foster June 15, 2020
Class of 1965 Janet Slocum Craig June 13 2020
Class of 1968 Kathy Kemp Doan April 17, 2020
Class of 1967 Nancy Haynes Drake April 17, 2020
Classmate Karen Fitzgerald April 14, 2020
Class of 1957 William Jones April 10,2020
Class of 1979 Debra Ellis Price March 14, 2020
Class of 1986 Steven Bridge March 12, 2020
Class of 1982 Robert Yates March 8, 2020
Class of 1954 Robert Auckland January 29, 2020
Class of 1962 Gary Falzoi January 29, 2020
Class of 1949 Jeanne Tuttle Westbrook January 22, 2020
Class of 1955 Lawrence Brown January 21, 2020
Class of 1967 Charles Flanders January 15, 2020
Class of 1952 Myrtle King Crissey January 8, 2020
Bobbie Kromer Mahoney
Bonnie R. (Kromer) Mahoney, 61, went home to heaven on June 9, 2021.She was born in North Hornell the daughter of Ronald Kromer and Norma Bowen Kromer. Bonnie was a lifelong area resident, graduating from Arkport Central School “Class of 1978, and then went on to graduate from Olean Business Institute. Bonnie married Jay Plaisted June 11, 1983, and was predeceased by him in 2009. She had attended the Burns Community Church and most recently was attending the Fresh Start Church in Hornell. She had worked as a CNA in the Home Health Field for many years. Bonnie loved family get- togethers and holidays. All her family was very important to her. Her nieces and nephews brought great joy to her life.
Gary T. Dye
Gary T. Dye of 1452 Sharps Hill Rd., Hornell, (Town of Fremont) died Tuesday afternoon (April 27, 2021) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.
Nancy Kame Willard
Marlene Jones Bolton – Obituary not available
Thomas Springett
Thomas B. Springett, age 75 of Ellsworth, WI, died on Wednesday, February 3, 2021, at his residence. Tom was born January 5, 1946, in Hornell, New York, to parents William and Ida (Bissell) Springett. He attended school in Arkport, NY, graduating from Arkport Central with the Class of 1965. Tom furthered his education at Corning University with an emphasis in mechanical engineering. Tom was united in marriage to Treasa Schommer on June 29, 1991, in Henrietta, NY.
Kenneth Glee Brutsman, 74, of Phoenix, AZ passed away unexpectedly in his home on February 22, 2021. The world has lost a loving husband, amazing father, proud grandfather, and faithful friend.
Ken graduated from Arkport Central School (Arkport,NY) in 1965 and after attending Alfred University (Alfred,NY), he operated his own dairy farm in Arkport, NY. On February 14, 1970, he married the former Mary Elizabeth Hurlbut. Farming was in Ken’s blood, but he and his wife sold the farm and moved to Georgia where he pursued a degree in agriculture at the University of Georgia. After college, Ken spent many years serving the farming community of Madison, GA where he worked in agricultural sales. He involved his children in 4-H lamb showing and eventually acquired a small flock of sheep and a chicken farm. Ken fell in love with the desert of Arizona after visiting the state, so he and his wife left Georgia and began a new adventure in Phoenix, Arizona. Ken started a vending business and later became a valued employee at Quality Equipment and Spray, where he was employed until his death.
Ken embodied faithfulness in his actions. Ken was faithfully married to the love of his life for 43 years, until she lost her battle with cancer. He loved his children unconditionally, and they could always count on him for advice and support. His friends knew him to be dependable and loyal. His faithfulness as a man was rooted in his relationship with his Savior. He was a long-standing member of Sandy Creek Baptist Church in Madison, GA until he relocated to Arizona. Until his death, he was a member of Open Door Fellowship in Phoenix, AZ.
Ken was a humble man of few words, but he had a big heart, especially for those he loved. In his free time, he enjoyed spending time with his family, tinkering on projects in his garage, reading the Bible, westerns, biographies, and political commentaries, visiting museums, and experiencing the beauty of Arizona’s desert wilderness.
Ken is reunited with his loving wife Mary Elizabeth Hurlbut Brutsman and his parents, Marjorie Mary Ross Brutsman and Ronald Glee Brutsman in heaven. He is survived by his two children, Marjorie (Jeff) Atkinson of Madison, GA and Kirtus (Debby) Brutsman of Phoenix, AZ, five grandchildren (Elizabeth, Samuel, Jake, Lillian, Cole) and one great grandchild (Asher), a sister Melanie Brown and brother Melvin (Grace) Brutsman, both from Lafayette, Indiana, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
A memorial will be held on Wednesday, March 3rd, 2021 at 4pm at Camelback Bible Church, East Lawn. 3900 E. Stanford Drive, Paradise Valley, AZ 85253. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to The Gideons International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to spreading the gospel of Christ throughout the world. Address: The Gideons International, In Memory of Ken Brutsman, PO Box 214, Madison, GA 30650.
Sally Briggs Fox
Sally J. Fox, 88 years of age, passed away early Sunday afternoon, December 13, 2020 at Conesus Lake Nursing Home in Livonia. Sally was born April 25, 1932 in Arkport, the daughter of Leo H. and Alice (Austin) Briggs. She grew up in Arkport and graduated from high school there. Sally and Joseph Fox Jr. were married October 14, 1950 and together celebrated over 67 years of marriage prior to Joe passing away in February of 2018. She moved to Wayland upon their marriage and stayed there until her recent move to the nursing home. Sally and Joe owned and operated Joe Fox Farms for several decades. She loved working on the farm and did just about anything! Sally’s hobbies were many. She enjoyed ceramics, especially Santa Claus ceramics…she made a different Santa for her daughters, daughters-in-law, and granddaughters every Christmas for over 20 years. Sally was a Girl Scout Leader; and she ran the cake booth at St. Joseph’s Summer Festival for years. Sally loved to help people whenever she could; especially at their time of need. She was the leader of the St. Joseph’s Church funeral dinner program; a volunteer service that was appreciated by so many people and assisted them at their time of grief. Sally also lived for her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Of significance also was her love of shoes! Sally had a pair of shoes for every outfit she had and you could count on her looking like a million bucks…Class with a capital “C”! Sally was also a phenomenal cook! You could always catch her peeling potatoes for her famous hot German potato salad or apples for apple pie. Sally made so many pies and desserts that no one else could match. Sally was pre-deceased by her parents; her husband Joseph Fox Jr.; her daughters, Reneé Fox and Deborah Repka; and her son, Andrew Fox; her siblings, Leo Briggs, Muriel Hurlbut and Anne Armindinger. She is survived by her children, Daniel (Rose) Fox of Wayland, Jane (David) Mehlenbacher of Cohocton and Joseph M. Fox of N. Chili; her son-in-law, Robert Repka of Wall, NJ; her grandchildren, Rachele Repka, Russell (Jen) Repka, Ryan (Ashley) Repka, all of NJ, Tara (Josh) Longe and Autumn (TJ) Canfield, all of VA, Kurt Mehlenbacher (Katie Mark) and Eric Mehlenbacher of Wayland, and Jonathan and Kaitlin Fox of N. Chili; her great-grandchildren, Reagan, Reese, Ryder, Shane, Ledger, Canaan, Issac, Ethan and Addison; along with nieces and nephews. Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Sally’s funeral service will be private and at the convenience of her family, along with interment at St. Joseph’s Cemetery in Wayland. Her service will be live streamed on Saturday at 1pm. Please use the following link, https://www.youtube.com/PEISHTV. The stream will be available 5 minutes prior to the service. Contributions in memory of Sally J. Fox may be made to the Vincent House, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572 or to the Perkinsville Fire Department, PO Box 152, Perkinsville, NY 14529.
William T. Pryor
William T. “Bill” Pryor, 89, of 1071 Sharps Hill Road, Arkport, died Thursday evening (January 28, 2021) at his home, following a long illness.
Born in Hornell on March 23, 1931, he was the son of Dorance & Mary (Taylor) Pryor. However, he was raised by his “parents”, Vern & Agnes Livermore.
Bill grew up in Arkport and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1949). He attended the University of Buffalo before enlisting in the US Marine Corps. He served his country as a member of the US Marines from 1951 – 1954, spending a year in Korea fighting during the Korean Conflict.
Following his honorable discharge from the Marines, Bill returned to the Arkport area where he lived for the next two years. From 1955 – 1964 he resided in Phelps, NY, and was employed as a Lineman for New York Telephone Company. In 1964 he moved back to Arkport and continued working for New York Telephone Company in many capacities, retiring in 1988 as a manager.
Bill, along with his wife, Nancy, owned and operated Stone Hill Blueberry Farms on Stone Hill Road in Arkport where area families could enjoy the day picking their own blueberries. For many families, this became an annual tradition.
An avid outdoorsman, Bill enjoyed hunting & fishing. He especially loved hunting deer, turkey and small game on his own land.
He was married on April 15, 1955 to the former Nancy Fuller who died December 2, 2006. He was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Robert “Jay” Pryor (died 1964) and Martin “Marty” Pryor (died 2020); and his sister, Marianne Remsen.
Surviving are his loving companion, Kathie Pfaff; 3 sons, Bill (Amy) Pryor of Albrightsville, PA, Todd (Yvonne) Pryor of Clifton Springs, NY and Matt (Kelli Tierney) Pryor of Arkport; 2 granddaughters, Michelle (Richard Zimmerman) Pryor of Arkport and Taylor Pryor of Clifton Springs; 1 great-granddaughter, Harper Zimmerman; nieces & nephews.
At Bill’s request there will be no calling hours. A private graveside service with Full Military Honors will be held at Heritage Hill Cemetery in Arkport at the convenience of the family.Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Bill’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Hornell Humane society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY 14870
Barbara Greenlee Thomas
Barbara G. Thomas, 99, of Berkeley Springs, WV, formerly of Winchester, VA, passed away Sunday, October 20, 2019, at Spring Arbor Assisted Living.
Born 1920 in Dolgeville, NY, she was the daughter of the late Ralph and Maybelle Greenlee. After living in Arkport, NY for most of her childhood, she attended Bryant and Stratton Business School in Buffalo, NY. She was a secretary for Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and Temple University Medical School in Philadelphia, PA where she met her husband, Wilbur Clyde Thomas. They were married in Los Angeles, CA in 1951 and resided there until moving to Meadville, PA in 1955 with their two children. They retired to Statesville, NC and later moved to Winchester. Barbara was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She also enjoyed doing needlework, focusing on traditional rug hooking during the last thirty years of her life. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Winchester. She was preceded in death by her husband in 1991.
Surviving is a daughter, Susan Thomas and her husband Glenn Horr of Berkeley Springs, WV and a son, Peter Thomas of St. Louis Park, MN; granddaughter, Laurel Manville and husband Juston of Storrs, CT and great-grandson, Cooper T. Manville of Storrs, CT.
Sharon was raised in Hornell and graduated from Arkport Central School. She was first employed at Day’s Grocery in Hornell, and later as a nurse’s aide at several nursing homes in the Hornell and Wellsville area. In 1980 she moved to Wellsville, and was an active member of the Riverside Assembly of God Church. She enjoyed gardening, cooking, and meeting her friends for lunch at McDonald’s and Burger King.
She is survived by: her husband, Burt; a daughter, Susan L. Evans of Geneseo; a brother, James (Sharon) Northup of Wayne, NY; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Sharon was predeceased by: a daughter, Dorie Evans in 1988.
ARKPORT-Joel L. “Butch” McKibben, 74, of the Arkport/Bishopville area, passed away Friday afternoon (Oct. 16, 2020) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, after a long illness.
Born in North Hornell on Jan. 5, 1946, he was the son of the late Howard and Marie (Tournor) McKibben.
A graduate of Arkport Central School, Butch has resided in the Arkport/Bishopville area for most of his life and proudly served his country with the U.S. Navy from 1966 to his honorable discharge in 1969.
Before he retired he was employed at Foster-Wheeler in Dansville and also tended bar at many different locations, most notably The Hidden Hollow in Bishopville.
Butch was an avid outdoorsman who loved to hunt and fish. He was also an adamant Euchre player and will be remembered most of all for being a “jack of all trades.”
His loving family includes three children, Sherri (Ed) Korona of Amsterdam, N.Y., Shelly (Brian) Dunham of Hornell and Michael McKibben (Carrie Tschetter) of Rochester; his companion of 25 years, Christine Schirmer of Canaseraga; nine grandchildren, E.J., Sydney, Liam, Hunter and Akasha Korona, Caden and Jacob Dunham and Brendan and Ellie McKibben; two great-grandchildren; three sisters, Dorothy (Joe) Smyder of Tyrone, Pa., Linda (Doug) Johnson of North Carolina and Jackie (Bob) Widmer of Arkport; as well as several nieces and nephews.
The family would like to expression their sincere appreciation to Melissa McKay of the Wellsville V.A. Clinic and Sonja Robinson of the Visiting Nurses Association for the wonderful care they gave to Butch.
The Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St., Hornell is honored to serve the family of Joel L. “Butch” McKibben.
There will be no public calling hours or service. Interment, with military honors, will be held at the convenience of the family at Bath National Cemetery. A public Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
Sharon Alyse (Smith) Graham
January 27,1949 to September 26, 2020.
Sharon age 71, of Bath NY., slipped into eternal rest on September 26, 2020, surrounded by her loved ones.Sharon was the daughter of Clifford (Rip) and Bertha (Bea) Smith of Arkport NY. She was an active member of the Church of Latter Day Saints in Bath NY.
Sharon enjoyed gardening, culinary, and craft making. She also was a founding member of the “The Fremont Kazoos”. Sharon was frequently found enjoying the company of her 12 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren, and is to be blessed by another great granddaughter. She was a wonderful wife, mother, and homemaker. Sharon was married to Roger F. Graham Sr. of Bath NY. On September 9,1966 at the Canisteo Methodist Church. Roger and Sharon enjoyed many years of marriage, recently celebrating their 54th wedding anniversary.
Sharon is survived by her loving husband Roger F. Graham Sr., brothers Robert L. (Nancy) Smith and Bruce V. (Susan) Smith of Arkport, her two daughters Shellie R. Hilliard (Toby), Tammy S. Graham (Paul Mosher), Son Anthony N. Graham (Mindy) and (Lisa), her 12 grandchildren Natasha Seeger, Sarah Seeger (Jason Williams), Brittany Moore (Chris Delich), Amanda Seeger, Hans Seeger, Shane and Katy Hilliard, Ryan Seeger, Samantha Moore (Mike Stoddard), Anthony Graham (Jenna McIntosh), Courtney Graham (Matthew Getman), Brianne Graham (Lucas Gilson), and two aunts and one uncle. Sharon was predeceased in death by both her parents Clifford and Bertha Smith, her sister Susie (Mary) Harkenrider, two brothers Leroy (Stub) Smith and Jon Smith, her son Roger F Graham Jr. of Bath, NY lost 2016 and several aunts and uncles.A private family service will be conducted on September 28, 2020. In lieu of flowers those interested are encouraged to make donations to Unit 41200 at Strong Memorial Hospital.
Roger Graham passed away peacefully Wednesday, August 5, 2020, in the presence of his family after fighting a courageous battle with Leukemia.
Born March 16, 1945, he was the son of Leighton and Ethel Graham. He spent his childhood days in Angelica, NY graduating from Angelica Central School in 1963. Following high school, he attended SUNY Geneseo where he obtained a degree in teaching in 1967. There he met his wife of 52 years, Candice Corey, and they settled in Arkport, NY where they raised two daughters, Kelly and Kristy. He taught mathematics at Arkport Central School for 33 enjoyable years. Through his passion for teaching and sheer crazy antics, he touched the lives of all his students. Mr. Graham, AKA Grammy, will be remembered most for all his Grammyisms.
Roger was very active at the school serving as an advisor for numerous clubs, but his true love was coaching. He coached soccer for many years and basketball for over 25 years. He was known throughout the area not only for his coaching, but for his refereeing girls soccer and umpiring softball.
Roger was also an active member of the Arkport United Methodist Church and the Hornell Golf Club. He enjoyed gardening, golfing and traveling. Most of all he enjoyed his grandchildren and attending as many of their activities as he could.
Roger is survived by his wife Candice, two daughters Kelly (Timothy) Costello of Wellsville and Kristy (Robert) Sherman of Brockport, Brother Leighton “Dip” (Carol) Graham of Denver, NC, 6 grandchildren Quincy, Emily, Cody, Myles, Ty and Allie and many nieces and nephews.
The family of Roger Graham will receive friends on Sunday August 23rd from 4-7pm at the Arkport United Methodist Church, 1 West Ave, Arkport, NY. Please be advised social distancing and wearing a mask will be required. Due to the current COVID situation, a funeral service for family only will be held on Monday. Burial will be in Until the Day Dawn Cemetery Angelica, NY.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Arkport Central School Roger Graham Scholarship fund, ATTN Melissa Evans District Treasurer, 35 East Ave., Arkport, NY 14807 or to the Arkport Methodist Church in Roger’s name.
Edward Bradoc, Jr. Deceased August 3, 2020 No obituary avaiable
Barbara A Schirmer passed away peacefully on Saturday August 1, 2020.
Survived by her daughters; Laurie Otto, Valerie Naylor, Wendy Schirmer. Son; Gregory Schirmer. 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren.
No prior calling hours.
Services and interment will be held at the convenience of the family.
Friends may make contributions to Lollypop Farm, Humane Society of Greater Rochester, 99 Victor Rd, Fairport, NY 14450 in memory of Barb.
Martin J. “Marty” Pryor – 62 – of 2180 Stone Hill Road, Arkport (Town of Dansville) died unexpectedly Tuesday afternoon (July 28, 2020) at his home.
Born in Hornell on July 23, 1958, he was the son of William “Bill” & Nancy (Fuller) Pryor.
Marty grew up in Arkport and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1977). He later received an Associate’s Degree in Business & Hotel Management from Delphi College.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Nancy, who died December 2, 2006; his brother, Robert “Jay” Pryor who died in 1964.
Surviving are his father, William “Bill” (Kathie Pfaff) Pryor of Arkport; his daughter, Michelle (Richard Zimmerman) Pryor of Arkport; 3 brothers, Matt (Kelli Tierney) Pryor (son) of Arkport, Bill (Amy) Pryor of Philadelphia, PA and Todd (Yvonne) Pryor of Clifton Springs, NY; his granddaughter, Harper Zimmerman; 1 niece, Taylor Pryor.
At Marty’s request there will be no calling hours. Private services will be held at the convenience of the family with final interment in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, NY.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Marty’s family request that memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or the Fremont Fire & Ambulance, 8125 State Route 21, Arkport, NY 14807
Brian K. Morgan – 53 – of North Almond Valley Road, Arkport, NY (Bishopville), died Wednesday morning (July 22, 2020) at Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, NY following a long illness.
Born in North Hornell on October 31, 1966, he was the son of Arthur & Doris (Hulett) Morgan.
Brian grew up in Bishopville and attended Arkport Central School. From the age of 13, he enjoyed farming and for many years worked on several area farms including the Brown Family Farm in Bishopville, Sugar Creek Farm in Ossian and the Karr Family Farm in Fremont, NY. He was a “Multi-Tasker” and could handle any farm related job.
For many years, Brian also was employed as a truck driver, driving for several area businesses such as Covered Wagon of Hornell, Scuba Construction of Almond and Leon Lacy Trucking of Arkport. He was a self taught “Jack of All Trades” who was extremely mechanically minded and had a reputation of a man who could fix just about anything.
Having a deep love of the nature and the outdoors, Brian enjoyed hunting, especially deer hunting (both shotgun & bow) and small game hunting. He also had an affection for animals and throughout the years enjoyed the company of his many pet dogs. Brian will be sadly missed by his canine friend, “Tibber”, a “Jack-A-Poo” (Jack Russell & Poodle mix) who helped comfort him through his long illness. He was also a long-time member of the Arkport American Legion.
Brian was preceded in death by his step-son, Daniel Crane; his father, Arthur Morgan; and his sister, Sherry Woods.
Survivors include his wife of nearly 28 years, Mary, who he married on August 1, 1992; his son, Jacob (Samantha Smith) Morgan of Bishopville; his step-son, Murray (Erica) Crane of Dansville; his mother, Doris Morgan of Bishopville; 3 brothers, Richard (Gail) Morgan of Greenwood, David (Gertrude) Morgan of Canisteo and Kevin (Marcie) Morgan of Avoca; 4 sisters, Janice Kepner of Hornell, Sandra (Al) Eymer of Bishopville, Donna (Lani) Barros of Burns, NY and Shelby (Leo Seamon) Eymer of Bishopville; 3 grandchildren, Arika, David & Julius; several nieces, nephews & cousins.
Floyd Patrick Farley
HORNELL-Floyd Patrick Farley, 83, passed away unexpectedly Sunday evening (July 26, 2020) at his home on Sharps Hill Road (Town of Fremont).
Calling hours are 4-7 p.m. Thursday (July 30, 2020) at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St., Hornell. 25 PEOPLE WILL BE ALLOWED IN THE FUNERAL HOME AT ONE TIME. FACE MASKS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING WILL BE REQUIRED AND THE USE OF HAND SANITIZER AFTER ENTERING. Friends are invited to join his family at S. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell where a Mass of Christin Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday (July 31, 2020). THOSE ATTENDING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR FACE MASKS AND PRACRICE SOCIAL DISTANCING. Committal prayers and interment, with military honors, will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Fremont.
All the services will be live streamed and may be see either on the homepage of www.bishopandjohnsonfuneralhome.com (please see link for live stream) or on the Facebook page of Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc. for 30 days beginning at 10 a.m. Friday (July 31, 2020).
In lieu of flowers those wishing may contribute in his memory to either St. Mary’s Cemetery in care of Our Lady of the Valley Parish or to the Hornell Area Humane Society.
Rodney Charles Holden, 83 of County Route 54, went to be with the Lord our God on Tuesday morning July 21, 2020 surrounded by his loving family.
Rodney was born on March 15, 1937 to Thurlow and Doris Elizabeth (Swartz) Holden at St. James Mercy Hospital in Hornell. He graduated from Arkport Central School in 1956. Rodney enlisted in the United States Navy and served and protected our country for four and a half years. During those years he had the opportunity to travel around the world and later, enlighten and entertain his family with tales of his adventures and a few misadventures.
In 1966, he married his best friend and love of his life, Betty Shader. They lived in Springwater for 30 years where they raised their 3 daughters. He worked tirelessly at various jobs to provide for his family. He retired in 1996 from Mixco in Rochester.
Rodney and Betty embarked on their next adventure and built a home on the farm that Rodney was raised on. Using trees from the homestead, Rodney worked alongside the builder to complete their new home.
Rodney loved the Lord. He was an active member of the South Dansville United Methodist Church. Rodney was one of the ushers who always did a good job according to the other usher. His absolute favorite position was the morning greeter. He loved seeing, greeting, and joking with his church family every week. Whenever there was a church dinner, you could be guaranteed to see him with his friends, the dish dryer and the inspector, keeping things running smoothly. His church family will miss his warm smile and embraces, funny quips, and his willingness to help whenever and wherever he was needed. He was an amazing example of Christ’s Love through his servant’s heart.
Rodney loved vacationing at the beach with his family; teaching his daughters and later, his grandchildren about giving rocks the float test, and the art of chasing a sea gull. Rodney traveled with his wife Betty to all 50 states, went on several cruises with friends and toured Ireland.
Rodney loved the woods. He was always cutting wood to keep his family warm during the winter. When he wasn’t cutting wood, he enjoyed giving tractor rides, which will be missed by his family.
Rodney was the best dad ever to his 3 daughters; Yvonne, Vickie and Valcia, whom he loved with all of his heart. He was also a best friend to his sons-in-law; Michael, Mark, and Billy. Rodney, AKA “PopPop” was blessed with five beautiful grandchildren; Trevor loved helping PopPop with various projects around the farm. He especially enjoyed learning about the different types of trees in the woods. Annie will always cherish her rides with PopPop in his truck to feed the chickens in the barn. PopPop loved teaching and Eden loved learning the songs from his school bus days, Navy days and other cute songs from his childhood. When caring for his chickens became a challenge, Charles adopted them. Charles loves his chickens and they love the care Charles gives them. Ollie and PopPop were sparring buddies. Whenever Ollie would spend the night, the two of them would carry on until they would get into trouble. They also shared a love for country music especially Eli Barsi.
Rodney loved animals. Dogs were his favorite. Over the years, he had several faithful companions. His walks on the beach often were delayed with conversations with other dog owners about their furry companions.
Rodney is survived by his loving wife; Betty of 54 years, his daughters; Yvonne (Michael) Stephenson, Vickie (Mark) Orgar, and Valcia (Billy) Holden-Taylor, his grandchildren; Trevor (Aubrey) Holden Stephenson, Annie Elizabeth-Rose Stephenson, Eden Mae Marie Stephenson, Charles Ernest Orgar and Oliver Michael Christian Taylor, his sister-in law and brother-in-law, a niece, nephew and cousins in California. Rodney was predeceased by his parents; Thurlow and Doris Holden, his sister; Marsha Anne Holden, several aunts, uncles and his very special four footed friends.
Dwight Burger
Dwight G. Burger Sr., age 78, passed away unexpectedly Sunday evening, June 28, 2020, in the ER at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville after being stricken at home.
He was born in the Town of Dansville on August 19, 1941, a son of the late Dana and Ruth (Kiefer) Burger. He was also predeceased by a son Dwight Jr., and siblings June (Ernie) Neu, Duane and Larry Burger. On August 19, 1961, he was married to the Carrie Wyant Burger.
Dwight, also known as Dad, Pa, or Poppy, enjoyed serving his country in the U.S. Navy from 1959 to 1962. He was an active member of the South Dansville Fire Department for many years. He loved spending time with his family, hunting, farming, reading books and being a handy man.
After he and Carrie raised their three children, they moved back to the house that Dwight was born in, The Burger Tree Farm. This is where he spent a lot of his time after retiring from Foster Wheeler, grooming the Christmas trees. He enjoyed seeing the bliss in the family’s eyes when they came to pick out their Christmas tree. When he wasn’t trimming Christmas Trees, he helped his wife, Carrie with C&G Country store, being the handy man and helping wherever was needed. Along with taking care of the beef cattle and ostrich’s they had on the farm.
He spent many years attending his granddaughter, Jessica’s horse shows (which he never missed a show) and his grandson, Ryan’s baseball games. He enjoyed traveling to North Carolina to see his daughter Karen and granddaughter Danielle, where they spent a lot of time making memories playing games and cooking delicious foods. Dwight was blessed with being able to enjoy some time with his great grandkids, Kyle and Kollin, who always made him laugh by telling jokes and all sorts of stories about the pranks they played on their dad and grandpa.
Surviving in addition to his dear wife Carrie, are his sister Caroline (Dean) McCarthy, brother Chet Burger, daughters, Kelly (Jeff) Harvey of Dansville, and Karen LaFevers of Hudson, North Carolina; three grandchildren, Ryan (Bethany Wise) Harvey, Jessica (Ryan) Backus and Danielle LaFevers, great-grandsons, Kyle and Kollin Harvey; and many nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held at the convenience of the family at the South Dansville United Methodist Church. Interment will be in Rogersville Forest Lawn Cemetery, South Dansville. Ref. Hindle Funeral Home, Inc., 271 Main St., Dansville, NY 14437. Online memorials may be left at HindleFuneralHome.com
In lieu of flowers please make memorials to the South Dansville Fire Department, Fremont Ambulance Company or the American Heart Association.
Theolyn C. (Pryor) Foster
Theolyn (Geri) Foster, January 19, 1929 – June 15, 2020. A long- time resident of Cortland, New York. Theolyn is survived by one son, Edwin Foster Jr., Greer, SC., one daughter Jean Foster Smith of Effort PA and her sister, Louise Hollister, Hornell, NY. Survived by seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. Theolyn was predeceased by her husband, Edwin Sr., Three sons Stephen J., Daniel J., Kelly M., One beloved grandchild Jacob. There will be no services at her request with cremation at convenience of the family. Arrangements by Wright Beard Funeral home, Cortland, NY. Notes of condolence may be sent to Edwin Foster, 4485 Skyland Dr., Greer, SC 29651.
Janet Slocum Craig
COLUMBIA – Janet Lorraine Slocum Craig, 73, wife of Albert Edward Craig, passed away Saturday, June 13, 2020. Funeral service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 20, 2020 at Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dunbar will supply masks and hand sanitizer and social distancing standards will be in place.
Janet Lorraine Slocum Craig was born in Hornell, N.Y., the daughter of the late Walter A. and Mabel Miller Slocum. She was employed as a Hardware Installer for a furniture manufacturing company, in NY; after moving to SC she took a position as a Retail Store Manager, where she loved engaging with customers and helping them with decorating ideas.
Jan enjoyed spending time with her family, friends, doing crafts and being active in her community. She was a member of the Red Hat Society, Divas and Diamonds, and the Magnolia Belles. She is survived by her husband, Albert Edward Craig; three daughters, Sandra Elizabeth Johnson of Leicester, N.Y., Patricia Anne Welton of Dansville, N.Y., and Kimberly Sue Ford of Montclair, New Jersey; three stepdaughters, Caroline Craig Overcash of Rock Hill, Sharon Martha Craig of Columbia, Janet Melissa Jackson of Charleston; three brothers, Charles Arthur Slocum of Texas, James Edward Slocum of Hornell, N.Y., George Slocum of Candor N.Y.; two sisters, Marcella Butler of Arkport, N.Y., Ruth Henry of Shermans Dale, PA; and three grandchildren, Emily Welton, Noah Overcash, and Abbigail Reese Jackson.
Memorials may be made to United Way of the Midlands, 1818 Blanding Street, Columbia, SC 29201.
Nancy Jane Drake – 70 – of Hornell, NY, passed away on Friday, April 17, 2020 at Hornell Gardens Nursing Home, due to complications from COVID-19.
Nancy was born in Arkport, NY on August 8, 1949 to Franklin and Joy (Wilson) Haynes. She attended school and graduated from Arkport Central High School. She, later in life, went on to attend college at Alfred State College for computer and office management training.
Soon after high school Nancy married Paul Fisk and was later married to Richard “Doug” Drake (deceased). She lived most of her life in the Hornell area except for a few years when she lived in Buffalo, NY after attending college. She worked for many years as a waitress and bartender in local Hornell area establishments such as the Big Elms, Sunset Inn, Muhleisen’s and Lucy’s Tavern.
Nancy was an avid fisherwoman and loved being outdoors and around a good campfire. She was quick to laugh and was known for her fun-loving personality and for her feistiness in her later years.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Franklin and Joy Haynes.
Nancy is survived by daughter Kimberly Fisk (Larry Humphreys) of Tampa, FL, son Jody and Jennifer (Cook) Fisk of Honeoye, NY, daughter Corianne Covert (Freeman Covert) of Folsom, CA, and her grandchildren Michael, Glen, Autumn, Melinda, Kyla and Hunter. Nancy also has two surviving brothers Bill (Janice) Haynes and Alan Haynes.
No arrangements are available at this time. There will be a memorial at a future date to be determined.
Karen L. Fitzgerald died early Tuesday morning (April 14, 2020) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a long illness.
Born in Rochester, NY on June 2, 1960, she was the daughter of Joseph & Minnie (Thompson) Fitzgerald.
In her younger years, Karen resided in several places, including Rochester, NY and Newtown, CT, eventually moving to South Dansville as a teen and attending Arkport Central School.
Most of Karen’s career was filled with jobs that helped people. She worked at Jack and Jill’s Daycare in Henrietta, NY and spent many years working for ARC of Steuben in multiple capacities. After leaving ARC, she became a babysitter and a caregiver.
Karen was a member of the Arkport Presbyterian Church where she served as a volunteer for their Release Time Program and their Vacation Bible School. She attended Ladies’ Bible Study and served on the board of Deacons. She enjoyed scrapbooking, needlework, card making and other crafts. Karen was also an avid fan of the Arkport Central School sports programs, although she was often caught cheering on both teams. Her spirit, positive attitude, kindness and sunny disposition will be missed by all.
In addition to her parents, Joseph & Minnie, Karen was preceded in death by 2 brothers, Mike Fitzgerald and Jimmy Fitzgerald; 1 sister, Mary Burnham.
Surviving are her daughter, Sarah (Jason) Platt of Suffern, NY; her twin sister, Sharon (Mark) Westhoff of Searcy, AR; her brother, Paul Fitzgerald of Rochester; several nieces & nephews.
Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic there will be no calling hours at this time. A Memorial Service and Celebration of Life (Karen’s 60th birthday party) will be held at a future date.
William “Bill” Jones
William R. Jones, 71, of Henry Street, a son of the late Cy and Helen Jones, passed away early Friday morning (April 10, 2020) at Elderwood at Hornell, after a brief illness.
Due to the present circumstances calling hours and a memorial service will be held at a future date at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St., Hornell. A complete obituary will appear at that time.
Debra Ellis Price – No obituary available
Myrtle King Crissey – No Obituary available
Steven T. Bridge
Steven Terry Bridge, 52, passed away suddenly from a heart condition at his home on Thursday (March 12, 2020).
Mr. Bridge was born on April 10, 1967 in North Hornell to William M. and Nancy A. (Seaman) Bridge, Jr. He was a 1986 graduate of Arkport Central School. After high school, he joined the Army where he served for five years, completing his tour as a Black Hawk helicopter crew chief.
Steve worked as a truck driver for Brigg’s Farm and Hoopes Turf Farm. He also worked for Alstom in Hornell as a mechanical technician.
In addition to his mother, Steve is survived by his children, Jordan Bridge of Brockport, Andrea Vosburg and Brandon Vosburg both of Hornell and Carmin Zoccali of Henrietta; his brothers, Bill Bridge of Williamson, and Kevin (Shelly) Bridge of Andover; his sisters Vicky (Phil) Wierchowski and Gail Bridge Sears both of Alden; several nieces, nephews, and cousins and his beloved dog, Brandy.
He was preceded in death by his father, William M. Bridge Jr.
Steve spent a great deal of time outdoors as he loved to fish. He also took great pleasure in landscaping and gardening, primarily flowers. He was very mechanical which was useful in maintaining the koi pond that he installed in his own landscaping.
He and his son Brandon delighted in online gaming almost every evening. Often joining them were Steve’s nieces, nephews, and friends, even friends from the U.K. The highlight and purpose of his life was his family. He was their biggest fan as he followed all their sporting events and activities. He dedicated his life to being a wonderful father to JoJo, Andrea, Brandon, and Carmin.
A celebration of Steve’s life will be announced at a later time.
Robert A. Yates
Robert A. “Rob” Yates – of 1447 Vine St., Millbury, OH, formerly of Arkport, NY, died Sunday morning (March 8, 2020) at St. Vincent Medical Center in Toledo, OH, following a brief illness.
Born in Hornell on April 10, 1964, he was the son of Gilbert “Gil” & Diane (Nitsche) Yates.
Rob grew up in Arkport and was a graduate of Arkport Central School (class of 1982). He later graduated from Alfred University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Ceramic Engineering.
He moved to Glassport, PA in 1990 where he was employed at Guardian Industries. He briefly lived in McKeesport, PA, still working at Guardian Industries.
On May 14, 1994, he was married to the former Rose Nagy. Rob & Rose moved to White Oak, PA where he was employed at World Kitchens, a company that manufactured Pyrex Dishes. In 2015 they moved to Ohio where Rob worked as a Furnace & Batch Engineer for Johns Manville Company.
While living in Arkport, Rob was a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. He later belonged to St. Angela Church of White Oak, PA.
Rob enjoyed rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers and also enjoyed fishing at his sister’s pond (trying to catch a pike) along with river & stream fishing. He loved attending family functions such as family reunions and “Pond Parties” and weddings, always making an effort to attend no matter where he happened to be living at the time. His laugh was contagious and would usually make everyone in the room join in with laughter!
He loved playing chess with his son, Robbie; playing cards (especially euchre) with his family; and pitching horseshoes at family picnics. Rob had a deep affection for his pets and love feeding birds and listening to them chirp. He also enjoyed gardening — raising tomatoes, peppers & cucumbers.
Rob was a true family man whose greatest joy was simply spending time with his wife, Rose, and attending his son, Robbie and daughter Melissa’s functions, such as concerts and Boy Scouts. They were truly his “PRIDE AND JOY”.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Diane Yates who died in 2008; his brother, Gary Yates who died in 1979; and his brother-in-law, Jim Perry.
Surviving are his wife, Rose Yates of Millbury, OH; his son, Robert “Robbie” (Cara Mazurek) Yates of Millbury, OH; his daughter, Melissa Yates of Millbury, OH; his father, Gilbert “Gil” Yates of Arkport; 4 sisters, Sharon (Willy) Meinking of Almond, Mindy Perry of Hartsville, Brenda (Randy) Abrams of Bath and Cyndi (Ron) Gula of Ellicott City, MD; 2 brother, Daniel (Terry) Yates of Batavia, NY and Michael (Shari) Yates of North Tonawanda, NY; several aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces & nephews.
The family of Robert A. “Rob” Yates will receive friends on Friday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in Fremont Cemetery, Fremont, NY.
ROBERT C. “BOB” AUCKLAND, age 83, went home to be with his Lord on February 29, 2020 at Forest Glen Health Campus with his loving family by his side. He was born on October 5, 1936 in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, Son of the late Robert and Ada (Lehr) Auckland. Bob moved to Arkport, New York at the age of 5, later graduating from Arkport Central School, class of 1954, where he was active in sports and other school activities. He proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1955-1957, and in September of 1957, he married his high school sweetheart, Mary (Latimer). Together, they had two daughters, Diane M. (David) Cornish and Denise A. (Rob) Martin. They have two granddaughters, Lindsay J. Cornish and Emily C. (Jonny) Thacker and two great-granddaughters, Lydia and Eden Thacker. He was preceded in death by beloved grandson, Andrew J. Martin. Bob is also survived by two brothers, William (Suzanne) Auckland, Thomas Auckland; sisters-in-law, Darlene Auckland, Shirlie (Charles) Parsons and several nieces and nephews. He was an Agency Manager with Prudential Insurance in Hornell and Corning, New York for 21 years. Bob earned numerous sales achievement awards, including the President’s Citation Award. However, Bob’s most prestigious award that he was the proudest of was the Prudential Community Service Award. This was not a sales award, but was granted for outstanding community service. The year Bob earned this award, he was 1 of 17 out of the 57,000 Prudential employees to earn this recognition. In addition to his service with Prudential, he was a Senior Development Officer with The Salvation Army, Cedarville University, and also served as Vice President of Retail and Commercial Lending with Huntington National Bank. His last 10 years of employment were spent with Ohio Living as Senior Vice President. Bob served in many different ministries within Southgate Baptist Church where he was a member. Bob was devoted to his community serving as a board member for many non-for-profit and for-profit organizations. Bob always loved being with his family and was always thankful for the wonderful years God gave him with his loving wife of 62 years. Having now departed this earth, Bob is now enjoying his eternal home with his Lord and Savior that was promised him in John 14:2-3. Bob’s family invites you to gather with them for a celebration of his life on Saturday, March 7, 2020 at 1:00 pm at Southgate Baptist Church, Pastor Bobby Hile and Pastor Eric Mounts presiding. We are very grateful for the loving care and support our Forest Glen family gave us over the past seven years. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Southgate Baptist Church Building Fund or Salvation Army in Bob’s memory.
Gary A. Falzoi
Of North Tonawanda, February 29, 2020, age 75
Beloved father of Cara ( Michael) Hacker and Michael ( Kimberly) Falzoi; grandfather of Joshua, Daniel, David, Jonathan, Allison and Jonah; brother of John, Richard and Thomas.
Mr. Falsoi served in the US Navy during Vietnam, he taught at Spruce School in North Tonawanda for 40 years.
Visitation Thursday March 5, 2020 from 1:30 to 4 PM in the Vanguard Church, 375 Payne Ave. North Tonawanda where Funeral Services will follow at 4 PM.
Jeanne A. Westbrook , 89, of Alton, passed away at home January 22, 2020. Born in Hornell, the daughter of the late Henry Tuttle, and, Neola Van Keurn Tuttle. She enjoyed gardening, ice fishing, snowmobiling, spending time outdoors. Her and her husband had the opportunity to travel around the United States.
She is survived by her husband of 45 years Harold, Step Children, Terry Westbrook, Kevin Westbrook, and, Stephanie Hammer, brother, Dick Tuttle, sister, Barbara Torance, Grandchildren, Travis, Tonya, Cody, and, Luke.
Predeceased by two sisters, Charlotte Fox, and, Mary Lou Belles.
There are no calling hours or services. Arrangements are in care of the Farnsworth-Keysor Funeral Home, North Rose.
Lawrence R. Brown, 85, of Lafayette, passed away on Friday, February 21, 2020 at his home. He was born February 11, 1935, in North Hornell, NY. Larry graduated from Arkport Central School, Arkport, NY in 1955. On November 25, 1959, he married Melanie Brutsman in Almond, NY and she survives. Larry worked for the Lafayette Sanitation Department and retired in 1997. He was a member of St. James Lutheran Church and Wildcat Valley Rifle and Pistol Club. Larry enjoyed welding and collecting guns.
Surviving along with his wife are his children Scarlett (Fred) Braun of Oakboro, NC, Timothy (Wanda) Brown of Lafayette, Teresa (Chris) Changose of Goodland, Emily (Bryan) McCoy of Lafayette, Leslie (Barney) Lucas of Attica, Christopher (Rose) Brown of Darlington, 10 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren. Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents and a sister Carol Metcalf. Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 12:00 pm on Monday, February 24, 2020, at St James Lutheran, Pastor Peter Heckert officiating.
Charles W. Flanders
Long-time Mayor of the Village of Arkport, Charles W. Flanders, 70 of East Avenue, passed away Wednesday morning (Jan. 15, 2020) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, after a courageous fight with cancer for the past year.
Born in Hornell on July 14, 1949, he was the son of the late Robert and Marion (Brush) Flanders.
A lifelong resident of Arkport, Charlie was a graduate of Arkport Central School, class of 1967. From 1967 to 1968 he attended Boston Junior College and from 1968 to 1969 he attended the Rochester Business Institute, where he received an associate’s degree in broadcasting.
Charlie served on the Board of Trustees for the Village of Arkport from 1985 to 1986 and originally served as Mayor from 1986 to 1987. From 1996 to 2001 he served as a Supervisor for the Town of Hornellsville and in 2012 he was re-elected as Mayor and has served in that position until resigning on Jan. 3 due to health reasons. Charlies was a Holstein dairy farmer from childhood to the 1990’s and was also a popular School Bus Driver for Arkport Central School since 1999.
He was actively involved with the Hornell Tiersmen Drum Corps while he was in the 10th and 12th grades in high school and shortly after high school he played with the Dansville White Sabers. Since 2000 he was an active member of Mighty St. Joe’s Alumni Drum and Bugle Corps of Leroy, N.Y.
Charlie’s entire life centered around music and serving the community of Arkport.
His loving family includes his daughter, Jodi (Patrick) Moughan and two grandsons, Gabriel and Theodore Moughan all of Rochester; a step son, William Travis, Jr. of West Babylon, N.Y.; a sister, Louise Flanders of Avoca; an “honorary sister”, Jeanne Garth of England; also his loving fiancé and best friend, Heidi Beecher and her daughter, Shelby Beecher, both of Arkport; as well as several cousins.
The Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., in Hornell is honored to serve the family of Charles W. Flanders.
Calling hours are 1-3 and 6-8 p.m. Saturday (Jan. 18, 2020) at the Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc., 285 Main St., Hornell. A Celebration of Life will be held at 1:30 p.m. Sunday (Jan. 19, 2020) at the Arkport Central School Performing Art Center (please use the East Ave. entrance). Private interment will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to the Wilmot Cancer Center, 60l Elmwood Ave., Rochester, N.Y. 14642. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.
Online condolences or remembrances of Charlie are welcomed on the Facebook page of Bishop & Johnson Funeral Home, Inc