ALBION: Gminski, Robert “Bob,” age 67, passed away on August 3rd, surrounded by loved ones, in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Bob was born on September 14th, 1958, in Albion, New York, the youngest son of the late Arthur and Barbara Gminski. His early years were full of joy, love, and laughter, forging backyard and back-road adventures that would fuel front-porch stories over the years.
Upon graduating high school, Bob joined the US Navy and served as a corpsman for six years while stationed at bases in Sacramento and San Diego, California.
Driven by a passion for learning, he attended the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, where he obtained a bachelor’s degree in biology and earned his Juris Doctorate from the UALR William H. Bowen School of Law. He spent many years practicing family and bankruptcy law in both Conway and Little Rock, Arkansas, earning the gratitude of the clients he represented and the respect of his fellow attorneys.
On November 28, 1991, he married the love of his life, Patty. Together, they shared over 34 beautiful years of marriage, filled with deep devotion and mutual support.
Bob is survived by his beloved wife, Patty Gminski; his sister, Mary (Raymond) Whitelockecrawford; and his two brothers, Bill Gminski and Ken (Robyn) Gminski. He also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, who will deeply miss their uncle’s wisdom, kindness, and gentle spirit. Bob will also be missed by his loyal dog, Buster.
Bob found immense joy in the simple and beautiful gifts of life. He was a talented pianist whose music filled his home with warmth. An avid lover of the outdoors, he was happiest when he was on the water, whether navigating quiet rivers in his canoe or taking peaceful walks in nature. Together with Patty, he loved traveling and exploring new places, creating a lifetime of cherished memories.
Bob never hesitated to love deeply and laugh loudly. His true legacy will be the passion, love, laughter, and energy he brought to every situation and carried through every relationship.
The family would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the wonderful physicians and supportive and caring staff in the Coronary Critical Care Unit of Baptist Health Medical Center.
Visitation services were held at Smith Little Rock Funeral Home (8801 Knoedl Ct) August 7, 2026, at 1:00 pm. Services followed at 2:00 pm.
AREA: Erbe, John Earl (Buckshot), 87, went home to be with his Lord and Savior on July 29, 2026. He was predeceased by his parents, Lawrence and Rhea Erbe; stepfather, Henry (Red) Hayes; loving aunt, Marion; brother, Lawrence (Bud); beloved cousin, Michael Bump; half-sister, Patricia Brian; stepdaughter, Tina Travis (Silveria); and step-grandson, Joshua Travis. John is survived by his wife, Renee, of 47 years; brother, Thomas Hayes, and sister, Judy Hayes; children, Timothy (Kim), Christopher, Gregory (Rebecca), and Susan (Paul) Foster; stepchildren, Michelle Silveria and Kevin Silveria; and brother-in-law, James Ezrow, and sister-in-law, Patricia Ezrow; 13 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren, and other extended family members.
John was a union ironworker out of Local 33 Rochester for 33 years. He worked on bridges, parking garages, high rises, the Niagara Power Project, the Western New York Energy LLC ethanol plant in Medina, NY, and many more important facilities.
He retired in 1988 and split his time between Florida and NY. He enjoyed fishing and hunting but especially gardening. He loved to bless others with fresh produce. John was well-liked and had many friends and was known to be a steady, calm, loving man with a crazy sense of humor.
According to John’s wishes, there will be no service
John’s arrangements are in the care of Christopher Mitchell Funeral Homes, 16650 Route 31, Holley.
To share a special memory of Buckshot, please visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com
AREA: Fitzsimmons, Barbara C., died July 30, 2026, at age 84. Barbara was predeceased by her husband, Peter Fitzsimmons; son, Scott Miller; mother, Mary Czyzewski; siblings, Richard Czyzewkski and Doris Gendron. She is survived by her children, Mary Alice Miller, Dawn Miller, John (Jacqueline) Fitzsimmons, Thomas (Sharon) Fitzsimmons, Jennifer (Ralph) Dickinson, and Daniel (Karen) Fitzsimmons; 11 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; several nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Services and entombment will be held privately at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, Rochester. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Donations in her memory can be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 22718, Oklahoma City, OK 73123. Arrangements entrusted to Walker Brothers Funeral Home, Spencerport.
AREA: Weitz, Marilyn L., of Rochester, died July 28, 2026, at age 85. She was predeceased by her parents, John and Edna Kluth; husband, Harlan R. Weitz (2003); son, Brian Weitz (2022); and son-in-law, Kevin Hardy (2026). She is survived by her children, Linda Hardy, Charles (Lisa) Weitz, Allen (Nancy Porcellio) Weitz, and Rodney (Theresa) Weitz; grandchildren, Susan (Larry) Bucey, Lisa, Matthew, and James Hardy, Steven, Sean, and Jarrod Weitz, Jason (Lorie Wagner) Weitz, Nicole (Corey) Clayton, Zachary Weitz, Katelyn Weitz, and Danielle McNeill; several great-grandchildren; and many cousins. Marilyn was a devoted mother whose greatest joy was the love she shared with her family. She found happiness in caring for those she loved and treasured the time spent making memories together. Marilyn found joy in life’s simple pleasures and treasured the memories she made with her beloved husband. Together, they embraced the outdoors, spending countless hours canoeing, camping, exploring nature, and searching for hidden treasures at garage sales and auctions. Marilyn was a devoted member of St. John Lutheran Church choir for many years. She found great fulfillment in sharing her love of music through worship and valued the friendships she made within her church family.
Marilyn’s Funeral Service was held August 5 at St. John Lutheran Church, Hamlin. Interment in Parma Union Cemetery. Donations in her memory can be made to St. John Lutheran Church, 1107 Lake Road North, Hamlin, NY 14464. Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Hilton.
BROCKPORT: Lingg, RuthAnn M., born on May 9, 1967, died July 28, 2026. She was predeceased by her father, Richard Lingg; and grandparents, John and Ruth Stephens, and Pearl Lingg. She is survived by her mother, Barbara J. Lingg; brothers, John R. Lingg and Robert Lingg and his wife, Carolina; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends. For the last 37 years of her working life, RuthAnn built a long and steady career in information technology. She worked at EDS for 20 years and then spent 17 years at CSC/DXC Technology as a production batch scheduler, supporting many different clients with reliability, care, and quiet professionalism. RuthAnn lived her life with grace and compassion. Her faith gave her strength and guided the way she treated others, always with patience, generosity, and sincerity. She loved animals and had a special appreciation for the comfort and companionship they brought. She enjoyed traveling, loved music and going to concerts, and took pride in quilting and sewing, creating things with care and patience.
Her Funeral Service was held July 31 at Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport. Interment in Lakeview Cemetery. Contributions in her memory can be made to a charity of one’s choice.
BROCKPORT: Patrie, Patricia A. “Pat,” died July 29, 2026, just days before her 72nd birthday. She was predeceased by her parents, Raymond and Helen Puchyr; husband, James Patrie; and brother, Richard Puchyr. Pat is survived by her stepson, Rory and his wife, Deborah; sister, Carol; brother, John, and sister-in-law, Anne; and several nieces and nephews, Phillip, Nicole, Tiffany, and Benjamin. For many years, Patty worked as a bus driver for the Brockport Central School District. She took pride in her job and the responsibility it carried, becoming a familiar face to countless students and families. After retiring, she spent much of her time in Florida, embracing the sunshine and a slower pace of life. Pat was happiest in the kitchen or near the water. She loved to cook and bake—always eager to share a meal or a treat with those around her. She enjoyed traveling, exploring new places, and casting a fishing line wherever she could find a quiet spot.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Arrangements entrusted to Fowler Funeral Home Inc., Brockport.
CHURCHVILLE: Burling, Lester W., of Churchville, New York, passed away peacefully at the age of 91 on July 22, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with health complications. He was surrounded by his loving family and, most importantly, was holding the hand of the love of his life, his wife of 71 years, Shirley E. Burling.
Born on April 18th, 1935, in Riga, New York. Lester developed from a young age the strong work ethic, humility, generosity, and character that would define him for the rest of his life. He left school after the eighth grade to help work on a nearby farm, always putting hard work, responsibility, and family before himself. Growing up, he had a beloved pet cow named Cracker-a story he loved sharing throughout his life that always brought a smile to those around him.
At the age of 18, Lester proudly served his country in the National Guard, beginning his service in 1953. He later began a long and successful career with the Town of Riga, where he worked his way up to being a foreman. He spent 37 years earning the respect of his coworkers through his dedication and dependability. He remained with the Town until his well-earned retirement.
Lester met the love of his life, Shirley, when they were just 18 and 17 years old. They got married on October 8, 1955, and from that day forward never spent a single night apart. Together they shared 71 beautiful years of marriage, building a wonderful life and home in Churchville filled with unconditional love, laughter, cherished memories, and a family that became Lester’s greatest pride. More than anything, Lester treasured time spent with those he loved, especially helping raise his grandchildren. He was a man of quiet generosity, unwavering integrity, and genuine kindness. Family always came first, and he lived each day demonstrating that through his actions.
Those who knew Lester will remember him as a truly good man: a devoted family man, hardworking, dependable, humble, and quick with a warm sense of humor. He had a remarkable ability to make everyone feel welcome and valued. His steady presence, selfless nature, and compassionate heart touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lester J. Burling and Lorraine Burling, and by his sister, Dorothy (Marvin) Allen.
Lester is survived by his devoted wife, Shirley E. Burling; his children, Melody (Gordon Sr.) DeBruyn, Terry Burger, Kim (James) Philips, and Darryl (Jackie) Burling; his grandchildren, Gordon Jr. DeBruyn (Joyce Reggiero), Jason (Nicole) Burger, Christina DeBruyn, Jeremy (Sarah) Burger, Robert Markese, Nicholas Markese (Stephanie Barbor), and Amanda Burling (Robbie Barch); his 12 great-grandchildren; and his special four-legged companion, “Bowsaa.”
Lester’s legacy is one of love, loyalty, humility, and unwavering devotion to his family. The values he lived by, the lessons he taught through example, and the love he so freely gave will continue to live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the countless lives he touched. His memory will be treasured always. To make a donation in his memory, please consider donating to the American Diabetes Association or the American Kidney Foundation.
The Burling family would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Westwood Commons for the exceptional care and kindness shown to both Lester and Shirley. We would also like to express our deepest appreciation to the incredible nurses and staff of the Palliative Care Unit at Strong Memorial Hospital. Thank you for the dignity, respect, and extraordinary compassion you showed Lester and our family during his final days. We will be forever grateful for the comfort you provided during one of the most difficult times in our lives.
ELBA: Ames, Sue Ann, 80, of Elba passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, at her home.
Ms. Ames was born November 4, 1945, in Batavia, daughter of the late Wilbur Alan and Eleanor D. (Driggs) Mason.
After retiring from Genesee Community College, Sue spent her time painting, exploring various multi-media arts, and spending time in the YMCA pool. She was deeply involved in documenting the family genealogy and watching all the fabulous birds that came to her many bird feeders.
Surviving are her children, Deborah (Leo) Starowitz of Elba, Rebecca Ann Ames of Boston, Mass., and Jeffrey (Erica Jacobs) Ames of Hilton; grandchildren, L. Daniel and Timothy Starowitz, Joshua Harris, Clark, Liam, and Ethan Ames; great-grandson, Braxton Harris; sister, Linda Jean (Ronald) Webster of Virginia; sister-in-law, Heidi Mason of Penfield.
In addition to her parents, Sue is preceded in death by her brother, David Allen Mason, and the father of her children, Leslie Ames.
Family and friends were invited to attend a graveside service on August 4 at 11:00 a.m. in Maple Lawn Cemetery in Elba. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Volunteers for Animals, P.O. Box 1621, Batavia, New York 14021.
Arrangements for Sue were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, 403 East Main Street in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.
HAMLIN: O’Mara, Kyle Kristofer, age 37, died unexpectedly on July 28, 2026. He is survived by his parents, David and Meri (Auger) O’Mara; brother, Shane O’Mara; sisters, Kristin (Juan) O’Mara and Keri (Hank) Bellnier; nieces and nephews, Sumari, Christian, Shane Jr., Eliza, and Rosie; several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends. He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, J. Bruce and Marlene Auger; paternal grandparents, Daniel and Roseann O’Mara; and beloved dog, Spade. Kyle enjoyed fishing, snowmobiling, golfing, kayaking, and football, especially the Carolina Panthers. He had the biggest heart, and he lived life to the fullest. Kyle was stylish and always had the latest fashion. The most important thing to him was spending time with his family, especially his nieces and nephews, and his love for Monica and Isla Jean.
His Graveside Service was held August 3 at Garland Cemetery, Route 104, Clarkson. Because he loved Isla Jean, contributions in his memory can be made to the Pediatric Cleft and Craniofacial Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Rochester, NY 14642. Arrangements entrusted to the Christopher Mitchell Funeral Home, Holley. To share a memory, visit www.mitchellfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
HILTON: Meisenzahl, Robert W., died July 30, 2026. Bob was born April 25, 1931, to the late Willet and Julia Meisenzahl. In addition to his parents, Bob was also predeceased by his brother, Dick; son, Gerry; and Gerry’s girlfriend, Debbie. Bob is survived by his wife of 72 years, Joan; daughter, MaryJoan; sons, Joe (Betsy) and Tommy (Dawn); Gerry’s girlfriend, Cheryl; grandchildren, Julie (Jeff) Johannes, Joanie (Steve) Bullis, Kelly (Kevin) Bropst, Nicole (Chris) Beyrle, Greg Meisenzahl, Matthew (Jessica) Meisenzahl, Carrie (Christian) Hallett, and Patrick Meisenzahl; ten great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandson. Bob’s early years were spent on his family’s dairy farm. He loved entertaining people with stories of his days on the farm and especially tales of his beloved horse, TikTok. Bob was a skilled handyman. He could fix just about anything and was a gifted craftsman. He was a phenomenal carpenter who could make anything asked of him. He made benches, frames, stools, decorative accents for the house, grandfather clocks, and so much more. When the farm was sold, Bob worked at Russer’s Meats and ended his career, fittingly, in Eastman Kodak Company’s carpentry shop. Bob went through life surrounded by friends. His likable nature and quick wit never left him even in his later years, nor did his incredible ability to show love.
Services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. Interment will take place in Holy Ghost Cemetery, Gates. Contributions in his memory can be made to the Hilton Parma Emergency Food Shelf – Food Distribution Center, 59 Henry Street, Hilton, NY 14468. Arrangements entrusted to the Thomas E. Burger Funeral Home, Hilton.
HOLLEY: Manley, Diane Mary, died July 29, 2026, at age 80. Diane was preceded in death by her parents, Herman and Gertrude Graue, and her brother, Robert Graue. She is survived by her husband of 59 years, Earl; four sons, Todd (Barb) Manley, Scott (Kerri) Manley, Ron (Melynda) Manley, and Greg (Megan) Manley; sister, MaryLou (Jack) Lancaster; sister-in-law, Terry Graue; grandchildren, Jessica, Jason, Jordan, Hannah, Lily, Dakota, Tanner, Owen, Luke, Thomas, Oliver, and Bailey; and two great-grandchildren with another expected in August. For 35 years, Diane served as a nurse at Hamilton Manor Nursing Home. Caring for others came naturally to her, and she worked the night shift so she could be there when her four boys came home from school. Diane’s quick wit, playful humor, and infectious laughter brightened every room she entered. She had an extraordinary gift for making people smile, and even in her final days, she continued to keep those around her laughing. She enjoyed painting, crafting, and creating beautiful things, transforming her house into a warm and inviting home where family thrived and memories were made.
Calling hours will be held Saturday, August 29, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Walker Brothers Funeral Home, 15 West Avenue, Spencerport. A Funeral Service celebrating Diane’s life will immediately follow. Contributions in her memory can be made to Hospice of Orleans, 14080 Route 31 West, Albion, NY 14411.
