Category: Obituaries

HORNELL – Sheila Ann (Harkenrider) Day, 75, of Hornell passed away Friday morning (Dec 30, 2022), surrounded by her family, at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, after a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on June 16, 1947, she was a daughter of the late Robert and Jessie (McKinley) Harkenrider. On Aug. 19, 1972, she married the love of her life and best friend, Jeremiah “Jerry” Day at St. Ann’s Church in Hornell, and together they had three children. Besides her parents, Sheila was predeceased by two brothers, Robert and Richard Harkenrider; three brothers-in-law, Philip Palmesano, Jesse Scott, and James Day; one sister-in-law, Elizabeth “Liz” Day; three nieces, Teresa Palmesano Andreano, Loretta Scott Beck, and Alicia Harkenrider; and two nephews, Randy Harkenrider and Johnny Day.

Sheila graduated from Hornell High School in 1965 and then attended the Continental Beauty School in Rochester, NY. She was self employed at Capri Hair Fashions in Hornell until the birth of her children at which time she became a stay-at-home mom. When her children became school age, she went into retail and was employed at the Hornell Kmart until its closing in 1998. Following that, she went to work at Steuben Trust Company until her retirement in 2009.

Sheila was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a devoted communicant of St. Ann’s Church in Hornell. Sheila was a strong woman and an extremely devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her grandchildren brought so much joy to her life. She loved spending time with her husband and family attending the grandchildren’s school and sporting events as well as dance competitions. Sheila was so proud of her grandchildren.

She is lovingly survived by her husband of 50 years Jerry; three children, Robert (Jill) Day of Rochester, NY, Shannon (Sean) Smith of Arkport, NY and Kevin Day of Hornell; nine grandchildren, Alexandria, Gracie, and Brennan Day, Guilianna, Zachariah, Conor, Carson and Avry Smith, and Julian Day; two sisters Mary “Patsy” Scott of North Carolina and Joanne Palmesano of Hornell; one brother, Terry Harkenrider of Hornell; two brothers-in-law, Joe Day of Hornell and Jack Day of Canandaigua, NY; and several nieces and nephews.

Sheila and her family will always be eternally grateful to the family that had to lose a loved one so that she may live. Nine and a half years ago, Sheila received an organ transplant that gave her a second chance at life. There is no greater gift given than the “gift of life”. God bless the organ donor and their family.

Calling hours are 4-7 p.m. Thursday (Jan. 5, 2023) at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell. Relatives and friends are invited to join her family at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Friday (Jan. 6, 2023). Committal prayers and interment will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Fremont.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in her memory to the Strong Memorial Hospital Solid Organ Transplant Department, 601 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14642 or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 10727, Rochester, NY 14610. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Sheila’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Sheila are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto or at www.bishopdesanto.com.

HORNELL-Bernice “Bernie” (Hurchla) Lucas, 80, of Hornell, died Tuesday morning (December 27, 2022) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Johnson City, NY on September 21, 1942 she was the daughter of Joseph & Mary (Maio) Hurchla.

Bernie was the beloved wife of the late Robert “Bob” Lucas; loving mother of Robert (Linda) Lucas, Joseph (Andrea) Lucas, Andrew “AJ” (Teri) Lucas; sister to Liz Finch of Binghamton, NY and Elsie Thompson of Lilburn, Georgia; cherished grandmother of Jared and Mackenzie Lucas; beloved aunt to several nieces and nephews.

She was predeceased by her parents Joseph and Mary (Maio) Hurchla; her husband, Robert “Rob” Lucas; her daughter Rebecca “Becky” Lucas, and her two brothers, Joseph “JR” Hurchla and Anthony “Tony” Hurchla.

A 1960 graduate of Johnson City High School, she married Bob on January 5, 1961. When Bernice and Bob started their family, she became a stay-at-home mom. In the 1970’s, Bernie became an office clerk for Tuttle & Rockwell Department Store in Hornell. She later changed careers and became a teacher’s aide for the BOCES Program in Hornell High School. She retired 20 years ago.
 
Bernie was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. She was an avid reader and she especially enjoyed reading mystery and romance novels.  In her younger years, Bernie served as a coach in the Cinderella Softball League. She was a true Buffalo Bills fan (especially during the Super Bowl years). More recently, she was a member of the Red Hat Society.
 
The family would like to thank Bernie’s devoted friend and neighbor Christine Petrilli, for her compassionate and steadfast friendship with their mom along with the entire Fulton Street neighbors. The family would also like to thank the members of the Hornell City Ambulance Service and CareFirst Hospice for the professional and sympathetic care they selflessly gave to Bernie during her final days.
 
The family will receive friends on Wednesday from 4 PM until 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church. Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY.
 
Bernie’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made in her name to either CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870, or to Special Olympics, 1 Grove St., Suite 216, Pittsford, NY 14534.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
 
Bernie loved her family, she loved her vodka, and she loved her husband. And now she rests in peace with him.
 
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

HORNELL-Marie L. Prior, 98, formerly of 21 William Street, Hornell, passed away peacefully on December 22, 2022 at Elderwood Nursing Facility where she resided for the past 7 years.  She was surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Painesville, OH on June 10, 1924, she was a daughter of the late Paul and Rose Vedo.  On November 20, 1943 she was married to Grover J. Prior, who predeceased her on August 17, 1978 after 35 years of marriage.  She was also preceded in death by her daughter, Roseanna Thompson and her brother, Paul Vedo.

Marie resided in Hornell for most of her life and attended Hornell High School.  Following high school, she worked at the former Huguets Industries.  Along with her husband, she owned and operated Stubby’s Tavern in Hornell from 1969 until 1978.  For several years, Marie was employed as a cook in the dining hall of Alfred State College.  She later worked at St. Ann’s Parish until she was well into her 80s.   She enjoyed the day to day operations that she helped with at the parish rectory and she retired in 2012 after many years of loyal service.

Marie was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church where she attended Daily Mass for most of her adult life.  She was an active patron of the St. Ann’s Adoration Chapel and a member of the St. Ann’s Altar and Rosary Society.

Marie was an avid lover of country music and even attended a concert with her granddaughter when she was in her 80s.  She also enjoyed cooking, cake decorating and spending time with her family and friends.

Marie is lovingly survived by 3 sons, James (Helen) Prior of Hornell, Thomas Prior of Arkport and Michael Prior of Rochester; 9 grandchildren; 14 great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews.

The family of Marie L. Prior will receive friends on Wednesday, December 28, 2022 from 11:00 AM until 1:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.  A Funeral Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 1:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be in St. Ann’s Cemetery.

Marie’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to Elderwood Nursing Facility, 1 Bethesda Drive, Hornell, NY 14843.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

“As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, my God” (Psalm 42:1)

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

HORNELL-Lena (Falzoi) Libordi, 98, formerly of Delaware Avenue, and a resident of Steuben Centers in Bath, NY passed away late Saturday afternoon (Dec. 17, 2022) in the presence of family at Arnot Ogden Medical Center in Elmira, NY.

Born in Hornell on March 21, 1924, she was a daughter of the late Frank and Mildred (Morici) Falzoi. On Feb. 8, 1974, she was married at St. Ann’s Church in Hornell to Frank A. Libordi, who predeceased her on Aug. 21, 2013 after 39 years of marriage. Besides her parents and husband, she was also predeceased by her two brothers, Francis “Fritz” (Caroline) Falzoi, Salvadore “Sal” (Mary) Falzoi; and two sisters, Rita (Attilio) Moretti and Margaret Falzoi.

A resident of Hornell for most of her life, Lena was a graduate of Hornell High School, class of 1941. Throughout the years she was employed by the former Argentieri Grocery Store on River Street, the former Merrill Hosiery and the former Gray’s Food Store on Main Street in Hornell. She was also employed by the Hornell City School District as an aide at the former Bryant School.

Lena was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and was a devout communicant of St. Ann’s Church in Hornell and a member of the Ladies of Columbus. She was extremely proud of her Italian heritage and was a life member of the Italian-American Women’s Club, formerly an auxiliary lodge of the Order Sons of Italy in America. She enjoyed spending time cooking, baking (her pizzelles were the best), sewing and crocheting; for many years she crocheted baby caps for the NIC unit at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY. And she was a devoted follower of her beloved New York Yankees.

She is lovingly survived by three stepsons, Charles (Patricia) Libordi, Francis (Kristine) Libordi and Thomas Libordi all of Hornell; five grandchildren, Christopher (Natalie) Libordi, Kara (Brian) Cline, Aiden, Aleah and Avery Libordi; four great-grandchildren, Connor and Caleb Cline, Juliana & Jackson Libordi; a sister-in-law, Rosalie (John) Tobin of Hornell; as well as several nieces and nephews, especially her devoted niece, Judy (Moretti) Cardamone of Bath, NY who provided compassion and friendship to Lena, and was a staunch advocate for her healthcare needs. Her caring attention was sincerely appreciated by “Aunt Lena”, and the entire family.

To honor her wishes there will be no calling hours. Relatives and friends are invited to join her family at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell, NY where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Thursday (Dec. 29, 2022). Interment will be at Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in her memory to St. Ann’s Academy, P.O. Box 446, Hornell, NY 14843. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the church.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell is honored to assist Lena’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Lena are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral home or at www.bishopdesanto.com.

HORNELL-Cynthia J. “Cindy” (Schumaker) Schultheis, 74, of 224 Greeley Ave., Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (November 30, 2022) at Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, surrounded by her loving family.
 
Born in Hornell on April 4, 1948, she was the daughter of the late Matthew & Jeanne (Griffin) DeGaetano.
 
Cindy grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1966).  She was employed as a Lab Technician at the former St. James Mercy Hospital for about 30 years and later worked as a Direct Caregiver for Steuben County ARC in Hornell.  Cindy also served as an advocate for several ARC residents in the Hornell Area. She retired about 15 years ago.
 
She was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish. Cindy had a deep affection for all animals and throughout the years owned many dogs & cats.  She also “adopted” many unwanted animals when their owners could no longer care for them.  
 
Cindy always enjoyed rooting for the Green Bay Packers. She loved surrounding herself with family, friends and neighbors, helping them whenever they needed her.

The word “no” was not in her vocabulary. One of her greatest joys was being a true friend. One of the many things she treasured was her regular “get-togethers” with her girlfriends from the Class of ‘66 as well as with former colleagues from the hospital. Sharing news of her grandchildren was always special. She will be forever remembered as “Beepa” to them.

In addition to her parents, Cindy was preceded in death by her first husband of 31 years, Roy Schumaker and second husband Alan Schultheis.

Surviving are her son, Matthew “Matt” (Erin) Schumaker of Ontario, NY; her sister, Lynda (Dennis) O’Brien of Hornell; 3 grandchildren, Justyn, Emma and Ethan Schumaker; her niece, Bridget O’Brien of San Rafael, CA. , her very special cousin, Susie Mauro, her aunts Fran Crane, and Ann Potter. She is also survived by several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and cousins.

A Memorial Service for family and friends will be held at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY on Friday, December 23, 2022 at 11:00 AM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. A luncheon for friends and family will follow at The Main Place. Final internment, at the convenience of the family, will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
 
Cindy’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to either the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Steuben ARC, 1 ARC Way, Bath, NY  14810.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
 
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

HORNELL – George M. Sexsmith, 80, of Elm Street, passed away Thursday afternoon (Dec. 1, 2022) at St. James Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

George was born in Hornell, NY to Merlin and Margaret (Matthews) Sexsmith on October 13, 1942. He attended St. Ann’s School and graduated Hornell Senior High in 1960.

George met the love of his life, Bonnie Curran, when he was still in high school. The two married on April 30, 1966 and made a beautiful life together with their two sons, extended family, and many, many friends who were like family.

In 1964, George enlisted in the Army Reserve where he became a drill instructor and reached the rank of Master Sergeant. In 1993, as he retired from the USAR, he was recognized with the Meritorious Service Medal for his dedication and commitment.

George was employed by the NYSDOT, retiring as a Bridge Repair Supervisor after 37 years. He was an active member of the American Legion, AmVets, K of C, and Loyal Order of Hibernians.

George was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Mary Margaret Hill and husband Stanley Hill; his brother-in-law, John Robarts; his nieces, Kimberly Curran, Judy Daly and Karen Kemp; and his nephew, Daemen Lawrence; along with several lifelong friends who were like brothers, especially Roger Argentieri.

George is survived by his wife, Bonnie Sexsmith; sister, Martha Robarts; sons, Michael (Michele Strazzeri) and David (Lisa Arno); grandchildren (who lovingly called him Pa) Cameron, Emily, Christopher, Abby, and Sam; along with several nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the Oncology Unit at Dansville and Strong hospitals, the Visiting Nurses Association, and the Comfort Care team at St. James Hospital.

Calling hours are 4 to 7 p.m. Friday (Dec. 9, 2022) at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell where the U.S. flag and the Army flag will proudly fly in recognition of George’s military service.

Relatives and friends are invited to join his family at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell where a Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday (Dec. 10, 2022). Committal prayers and internment, with military honors, will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Town of Fremont.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in his memory to either St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105-1942, or the Food Bank of the Southern Tier, 388 Upper Oakwood Ave., Elmira, NY 14903-1129. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist George’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of George are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home or at www.bishopdesanto.com.

ROCHESTER, NY-Jonathan E. “Jon” Murphy, 25, of North Water St., Rochester, NY died unexpectedly on Monday (November 21, 2022) at his home.

Born in Hornell on January 4, 1997, he was the son of Joseph & Bobbi (Clair) Murphy.

Jonathan resided in Hornell until the age of 14 when his family moved to the Rochester area. He attended Victor High School and later graduated from Tri-Valley Central School (class of 2015) in Grahamsville, NY. Following high school graduation, Jon attended Fingerlakes Community College in Canandaigua, NY.

He lived in Florida for about 4 ½ years and attended University of Central Florida. While in Florida, Jonathan was employed at Sun Protection of Florida (SPF) installing commercial and residential awnings.

Moving back to the Rochester area about 6 months ago, Jonathan had been employed at Graystone Construction and also as an installer for Rochester Colonial of Rochester.

Being very spiritual, Jonathan was a participant at St. Irenaeus Ministries Catholic Church of Rochester and was a member of the Rochester Diocese Young Adults Group. He also enjoyed attending the Notre Dame Retreat House in Canandaigua, NY.

Jon had an appreciation of music and loved playing guitar. He enjoyed attending concerts of his favorite bands such as the Dave Matthews Band. He loved woodworking and creating beautiful Celtic Crosses, artistic plaques and Rosary Beads. He spent endless hours at Maker’s Space creating gifts and pieces to sell. He donated all of the proceeds to charity. Jonathan had a deep love of the outdoors and kayaking, always taking his dogs on hikes. He enjoyed working out, including many years of Crossfit, and coffee shops. Most of all, Jon loved his family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph E. Murphy (died 2002) and his brother, Joseph T. Murphy (died 2006).

Surviving are his fiancé, Aaliyah Butler of Rochester; his mother, Bobbi (Andy Carter) Murphy of Crystal River, FL; 3 sisters, Kelli (Gary Thummler) Donlon of Rochester, Jamie (Sara Mobley) Murphy of Fort Worth, TX and Laura (Ben) Monell of Neversink, NY; his nieces & nephews, Shaelyn Donlon, Maeve Donlon, Norah Donlon, Colin Monell, Caitlyn Monell and Christian Monell.

The family of Jonathan E. “Jon” Murphy will receive friends on Wednesday from 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Thursday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with Burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Jonathan’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Jon was passionate about this charity and planned on participating in the Out of the Darkness walk.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

HORNELL – Earl Phillip Logan passed away peacefully, at home, surrounded by his loving family, on Friday, November 18, 2022, in Hornell, NY.

Phil was born in Hornell, NY, to Earl and Bertha (McCormick) Logan, on March 25, 1942. He attended St. Ann’s School and graduated Hornell Senior High in 1960. He enlisted and proudly served in the United States Air Force. While serving he met his wife, Marianne, whom he married on April 27, 1968.

Phil went on to lovingly raise seven children. In whom his wisdom, devotion, and tenacity will carry on.

Phil worked for the New York State Department of Transportation and the Department of Labor for 39 years. He retired as a Senior Safety and Health Inspector. During his time with DOT he served as Union President of CSEA. Phil was a Life Member of the Hornell American Legion, Post 440. He was very fond of his time spent involved with the Hornell Jaycee’s as well as several other community organizations.

In 1982, Phil started Citi Cart, Inc., a golf cart sales and repair business, which he owned and operated for over 20 years. To say Phil was an AVID golfer would be an understatement. Phil not only loved golf, but all those who were eager to learn and play the game. If you were ever fortunate enough to test his knowledge of golf, while playing or in fun on the patio at Twin Hickory, he would earnestly, and with a smile, provide you with the facts.

When he wasn’t golfing, Phil was a dedicated member of the local “Neighborhood Watch”, meeting regularly at the corner of Crosby Street and Canisteo Street, aka JC’s Café.

Phil was preceded in death by his parents, Earl “Red” Logan and Bertha “Birdie” (McCormick) Logan, and his beloved granddaughter, Hannah Logan.

Phil is survived by his wife, Marianne (Denning); his children, Phillip “PJ” and Debra (Dropp) of Almond, NY, David and Melissa (Milliken) of Hornell, NY, Mary Catherine and Trent Hyatt of Hornell, NY, Michael and Min (Chiou) of Rochester, NY, John and Eliza (Pytlarz) of Los Angeles, CA, Thomas and Ellyn (Scaffe) of Greensboro, GA and Ann Elizabeth and David Rotlisberger, of San Marcos, CA; his sister, Annette Logan, of York, PA; his nephew, Dirk and Becky Loedding of Jacksonville, FL; and his grandchildren, Noah, Benjamin, Delia, Lucille, Erica, Dory, Delaney, Karen, Zoey, Violet, Archer, Ferris, McCormick, Elizabeth and Lillian.

Calling hours will be 4-7 pm, Friday, November 25, 2022 at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St., Hornell, where the U.S. flag and the Airforce flag will proudly fly in recognition of Phil’s military service. A funeral mass, followed by military honors, will be held at 10 am, Saturday, November 26, 2022, at St. Ann’s Church, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell presided by Father Stan Kacprzak.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to may contribute in his memory to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY 14870 and St. Ann’s Parish, 31 Erie Ave., Hornell, NY 14843. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The family of Phil Logan wishes to extend our sincerest thanks to CareFirst Hospice, and to the many friends of Phil, Marianne, and their children, for taking such good care of us all.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home is honored to assist Phil’s family with the arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Phil are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson Funeral Home or at www.bishopdesanto.com.

ARKPORT – Martha Elizabeth Svenson Kelly Shafer, age 94, of Arkport, New York and Duxbury, Massachusetts passed peacefully at Updyke’s Willow Ridge in Hornell on Wednesday, November 16, 2022.

She was born on March 6, 1928 to Carl L. and Dorothy M. (Slader) Svenson in Milton, Massachusetts. Martha was raised in Milton and Duxbury. She spent ninety wonderful summers at her beloved family beach home in Duxbury with family and friends. In 1976, she married Herbert H. Shafer who predeceased her. Besides her husband, Martha was predeceased by her parents.

Martha was educated in Milton public schools and was a proud high school graduate of Thayer Academy in Braintree. She graduated from Simmons College and furthered her education at Pennsylvania State University before receiving a master’s degree from Alfred University.  Beginning her teaching career in Rhode Island, she taught home economics at Arkport Central School after moving to Western New York. She ended her teaching career at the Wildwood Campus of Steuben-Allegany BOCES in Hornell.
 
Martha enjoyed teaching her students the arts of cooking, sewing and other hand crafts. Many remember her guidance and constructive criticism of their cooking and sewing projects and her advice on childcare and household management. Active in school including Yorkers Club and community events, she was involved in the Arkport Presbyterian Church especially after her retirement.
 
A talented seamstress, knitter and crocheter Martha loved to decorate her homes, to garden and to entertain family and friends especially at her beach house. Favorite pastimes included shopping, antiquing, and dining out. Always a bargain hunter and serious shopper, Marshall’s, TJ Maxx and Home Goods were favorite stops in her later years. She was always beautifully dressed and accessorized even in her 90s. At Updyke’s Martha was one of the best dressed women with her seasonal wardrobe changes. 

Martha and her caregivers appreciated the excellent care she received at Updyke’s Willow Ridge for several years. The staff was wonderful to Martha, and many became her friends as did many of the residents.

She is survived by close friends and caregivers Beverly Crowell and Maribeth Crowell, cousins and friends including former students.

A memorial service with the Rev. Bruce Incze officiating will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, November 29, 2022, at the Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, 285 Main St. Hornell, New York. Burial will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport. The service will be live streamed and may be seen either on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home or on the home page of www.bishopdesanto.com for 30 days beginning at 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 29, 2022.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing may contribute in her memory to the Arkport Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 6, Arkport, NY 14807 or CareFirst NY (Hospice in Steuben County), 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, New York 14870. Envelopes for memorial contributions will be available at the funeral home.

The Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral is honored to assist with Martha’s arrangements.

Online condolences or remembrances of Martha are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home, Inc. at www.bishopdesanto.com.

HORNELL-Michael McDonald Holbrook, age 57, of 11 W. VanScoter Street, Hornell NY, died unexpectedly Saturday afternoon, November 5, 2022, at his home.

Born in Hornell on November 9, 1964, he was the son of William Holbrook and Pauline (McDonald) Holbrook.

Michael grew up in Hornell. His family discovered that he loved music and had perfect pitch when he was age 3. From ages 4 to 8, his dedicated mother drove him five days a week to SUNY Geneseo to work with Dr. Rosedale, a renowned Professor of Speech Therapy. Aided by the Hornell Barbershoppers, Michael attended the Institute of Logopedics (children’s speech) in Wichita, Kansas from the age of 8 to 22, where he learned to speak, read, write, and play the piano and violin.

Following graduation, Michael returned to Hornell where he resided with his mother for many years while working for the Steuben ARC in Bath. In his 30’s Michael began independent living at the Hornell Community residence. Over the years, Michael made many friends among the residents and staff in his group home and was very proud to earn money through his work at the Steuben County ARC Industrial Workshop in Bath and the Livingston County ARC Hilltop Industries in Mt. Morris. He rode the bus daily to work. No matter where he was, Michael would check in with the VanScoter Street staff to find out what was on the menu for dinner.

Michael was a creature of habit and he loved his routines. He watched classic TV shows such as Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy daily and listened to music from the 60’s, 70’s and 80’s that his brother Bill recorded for him. He was well known throughout the Hornell community and could be seen regularly attending Hornell Dodgers’ games and local band concerts, swimming at the YMCA, going to the American Legion and Elks Club and attending Kanona Fire Department dinners, usually in the company of his mother, and his brother, J.P. Michael loved to sing in church and often celebrated his birthday with the Hornell Barbershoppers. He would walk to his mother’s house on Adsit Place, checking in to say hello at the Hornell Fire Station and Police Department, and would go to church at St. Ann’s, and eat Sunday brunch at Country Kitchen. Michael was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and even had his very own pew reserved for him at St. Ann’s Church.

Michael’s family was very important to him. Whenever the family would gather, Michael would repeatedly say: “I’m not missing my family, am I?”

His father predeceased him in 1989. Michael is survived by his mother Pauline Holbrook, sister Debby (Alexander Hoke) Holbrook of Juneau, Alaska, brother Dennis (Michele) Holbrook of East Aurora, NY, brother Bill Holbrook of Juneau, Alaska, brother J.P. Holbrook of Hornell, brother Paul (Jill) Holbrook of East Aurora, NY; nephews Hayden, Ryan, Patrick, Zander, Billy, and Emilio; nieces Heather, Jessica, Caitlin, Ashley, Hannah, Erin and Emma; grandnieces Ariana, Emery and Mackenzie; and grandnephew Dylan. He also leaves behind the family that he loved at his VanScoter Street home.

The family of Michael M. “Mike” Holbrook will receive friends on Monday, November 21, 2022 from 5:00PM until 7:00PM at Dagon Funeral Home. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 10:00AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Michael’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to:  The Allegany-Steuben ARC,  YMCA of Hornell, NY or Hornell Area Wind Ensemble.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

ALFRED-Angela Rose “Angie” Ninos, 97, of 34 Hillcrest Dr., Alfred, NY died Monday afternoon (October 31, 2022) at Jones Memorial Hospital, following a brief illness.

Born in Delianuova, Italy on September 30, 1925, she was the daughter of Arcangelo & Josephine (Gongemi) Italiano. Angie’s family moved to the United States when she was 9 years old and settled in Bolivar, NY. Her family owned and operated the Chef Bar & Grill for years. She was a graduate of Bolivar High School (class of 1946).

Angie was married on October 8, 1949, to John E. Ninos who predeceased her on February 18, 2019.

Angie was a resident of Alfred since 1949. She & John owned and operated the University Diner, (AKA The Dog Cart), and in 1950 purchased the Collegiate Restaurant. They operated both restaurants, (Angie serving as a cook) until 1953, when the University Diner was destroyed by fire. They “retired” in 1996 when they sold the business to their son, John, and his wife Chelly, but continued to stay active and lend a helping hand for many years to come.

Angie had a deep love of the Alfred Community, and in return, she was loved and respected by the citizens of Alfred. In 1986 both Angie and John were recognized by the Alfred University Alumni Association and named Honorary Alumni. On December 12, 1993, they both received Honorary Doctorate Degrees from Alfred University. She was a communicant of St. Brendan / St. Jude Parish and a communicant of St. Jude Church.

In addition to her husband, Angie was preceded in death by her sister Anne LaBella, of Olean, NY.

Angela is survived by her brother Arcangelo “Mike” Italiano, of Glens Falls, NY and four sons, James (Karrie) Ninos of Alfred, Michael Ninos of Murphys, CA, John (Chelly) Ninos of Alfred, and Nikolas (Kara) Ninos of Buffalo; 8 grandchildren, Jill (Bryan) Crandall, Johnny (Ashleigh) Ninos, Kolby (Kristen) Ninos, Trevor Ninos, Jody (Chuck) Skipper, Austin Williford, Aristotle Ninos, and Nikolas Ninos; 4 great-grandchildren; Iliana Ninos, Tyler Crandall, Austyn Crandall, Layla Crandall, Finley Ninos, and several nieces & nephews.

The family of Angela “Angie” Ninos will receive friends on Saturday, November 12, 2022 at St. Jude Parish Church from 10:00 AM until 12:00 (Noon) located at St. Jude Parish Church, Lower College Drive, (SUNY Alfred Campus), Alfred, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at the conclusion of calling hours at 12:00 Noon with burial in Alfred-Rural Cemetery, Alfred Station, NY.

The family would like to invite all to The Lake Lodge, 6197 Terbury Rd, Alfred Station, NY following the ceremony for a celebration of Angie’s life.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Angie’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Jude Parish Church.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

ARKPORT-Gilbert “Gil” W. Yates (“Coach”), 94, of 8232 Cream Hill Rd., Arkport, died Sunday morning (October 30, 2022) at his home.

Born in Lyons, NY on September 4, 1928, he was the son of Charles & Margaret (Taylor) Yates.

Gil grew up in Marion, NY and was a graduate of Marion Central School (class of 1948). While in high school, he excelled in sports and “lettered” in baseball, basketball & soccer.

Following his high school graduation, Gil enlisted in the United States Air Force and served his country for four years during the Korean Conflict. While in the Air Force, he worked in Air Force Security Service and had been stationed at the Scott Air Force Base in Illinois, Lackland Air Force Base in Texas, Brooks Air Force Base in Texas, Elmendorf Air Force Base in Alaska and the Nome Airport (formerly Marks Air Force Base) in Alaska. He received his honorable discharge in 1952.

Following his discharge from the military, Gil enrolled at Brockport State College (under the GI Bill), Majoring in Physical Education and received his Bachelor’s Degree in 1956. After graduation from Brockport, he taught Phys. Ed. at Fredonia State College for one year where he also coached golf and basketball. Gil decided to continue his education and enrolled at the University of Indiana where he earned his Master’s Degree in Physical Education while also serving as a Teacher’s Assistant.

After receiving his Master’s Degree, Gil moved to Ellicottville, NY where he served as Phys. Ed. teacher at Ellicottville Central School for 3 years. He moved to Arkport, NY in 1961 and began a 30+ year career at Arkport Central School. During those 30+ years, Gil served as Athletic Director and coached basketball (12 years), soccer (28 years) and track (3 years). He retired in 1989.

For over 20 years, Gil served as a high school umpire for the girls’ softball program. He also umpired for girls’ softball tournaments throughout the area, such as in the Cinderella Softball League.

Gil was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. He had also been a member of the Hornell Moose Lodge and the Arkport American Legion receiving his 50-year membership award. He was an avid golfer and was a member of the Hornell Golf Club and he enjoyed playing cards, especially poker & euchre, and always looked forward to monthly trips to the casino when possible.

He was married on July 9, 1960 to the former Diane Nitsche who died November 29, 2008. Gil was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Gary Yates who died October 26, 1979 and Robert Yates who died March 8, 2020; his son-in-law, Jim Perry who died March 6, 2017; and 2 sisters, Evelyn Payne and Dorothy Meyers.

The family would also like to acknowledge the loving memory of Christine Rhone who passed September 3, 2021. The two of them sharing ten years of companionship and laughter. Additionally, in order to enjoy life to its fullest and maintain his independence as much as possible, the family would also like to thank and acknowledge the assistance of the Tender Loving In Home Care team.

Surviving are 4 daughters, Sharon (William) Meinking of Alfred, Mindy Perry of Hartsville, Brenda Abrams of Bath and Cyndi (Ron) Gula of Fulton, MD; 2 sons, Michael (Shari) Yates of North Tonawanda and Daniel (Terry) Yates of Batavia; his daughter-in-law, Rose Yates of Millbury, OH; 1 sister, Helen (Clark) Dingman of Marion, NY; 15 grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.

The family of Gilbert “Gil” W. Yates will receive friends on Thursday 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 Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in Fremont Cemetery.

Gil’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Rd., Hornell, NY 14843 or the Arkport American Legion, 1 Carter Street, Arkport, NY 14807. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

In recognition of Gil’s service to his country during the Korean Conflict, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral Home will be flown at half-staff.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.