Obituaries

Oct 29, 2025 at 12:00 pm by Observer-Review


Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of Oct. 29:

Judith Ann Henley, 80, formerly of Watkins Glen, passed away Oct. 20, 2025 in Penn Yan.
Judy was born in Penn Yan, and grew up in West Burlington, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Ralph Leonard and Sarah (Scott) Joslyn, and sister to 11 brothers and sisters. She was a student at Troy High School in Troy, Pennsylvania.
Judy was a resident of The Homestead in Penn Yan for the past several years, where she received loving care from the staff.  She formerly worked at Morse-Chain in Ithaca for many years.
Judy was predeceased by her parents and eight brothers and sisters. She is survived by her two daughters, Brenda Henley of King Ferry, and Tammy (Francesco) Palmieri of West Henrietta; sisters, Edna Robbins and Barbara Williams, both of Pennsylvania, and brother Frank Joslyn of Watkins Glen; two granddaughters, Alyssa (Ian) Trudell of Farmington and Sarah (Dylan) Burdick of Henrietta; and two great-grandsons, Gavin Adam Burdick and Ethan Zackary Burdick.
The family received friends at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home in Watkins Glen Saturday, Oct. 25 from 12-1:30 p.m., followed by a funeral service at 1:30 p.m., and burial at Grove Mount Cemetery in Himrod.
 
David W. LaMoreaux of Burdett died Oct. 24, 2025. He was the beloved husband of 55 years to Kathleen (Kate), proud father of Peter (Nickle) of Brewster, New York, and Philip (Andrea) of Plymouth, New Hampshire. He was also the loving Papa to Kennedy, Colin, Cameron and Iris. He is also survived by his sister Mary of Savona, LaMoreaux cousins Gail Cashen, Betsy Galbraith and Linda Hagen; and Sgrecci cousins Carl, Jim and Henry Sgrecci. Other close family members include sisters-in-law, Cynthia (John) Terry, Patty Kehe, and Barb (Chris) Deane, as well as many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents Elmo and Armida Sgrecci LaMoreaux and brother Stephen.
A graduate of WGHS, Class of 1965 and Alfred College in 1967 (AAS in Engineering), he went to work at Ingersoll Rand in Painted Post. After six months of employment, he was drafted into the U.S. Army and served in Vietnam from Nov. 11, 1968-Nov. 11, 1969. An infantry soldier in Quang Tri, he was decorated with a Purple Heart, a Bronze Star, an Oak Leaf Cluster for bravery and The Army Commendation Medal. He rose to the position of platoon leader, and achieved E-6 status before he was discharged. It was there that he was exposed to Agent Orange which triggered many of his later medical issues. When he returned home, he entered R.I.T. where he earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. After graduation, he returned to Ingersoll Rand, later Dresser Rand, for a 38-year career, part of which involved traveling the world as a tech service engineer.
He was descended from LaMoreaux ancestors who came to the east side of Seneca Lake in the 1700s. He loved living in Hector and was a happy man in the woods and at the Seneca Lake cottage where he enjoyed summers and entertaining family and friends. He loved boating and his tractor. With his mechanical aptitude, he could fix almost anything.
He was a founding member and past president of the Watkins-Montour Lions Club, and a member of American Legion Post 55 in Watkins Glen. He served many years on the board at the Seneca Union Cemetery in Valois, where his remains will join those of over 50 LaMoreaux ancestors who are buried there.
The family will receive callers at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home Nov. 10 from 4-6 p.m. His funeral will be held Nov. 11 at 11 a.m. at St. James’ Episcopal Church. Memorial donations may be made to Seneca Lake Pure Water Association or the Hector Playground Project.
 
Loretta (Lori) Maas, 90, of Watkins Glen passed away Oct. 19, 2025.
Lori was born in Brooklyn, the daughter of Charles and Emma Scheibling.
Upon graduating from high school, she pursued a master’s degree in elementary education. She went on to teach at Watkins Glen Elementary School for many years and later taught Pre-K at Newfield Central School.
She is survived by her husband of 69 years, Donald H. Maas; children, Shawn Maas of Watkins Glen, Alison Lane (Timothy) of Watkins Glen, Annette Maas of West Chester, Pennsylvania and Colleen Pastore (Frank) of Watkins Glen; brother Henry “Bud” Scheibling of Narrowsburg, New York; sister Lorraine Bodens of Liberty, New York; eight grandchildren, Brad Pastore, Danny Pastore, Adam Pastore, Terence Lane, Patrick Lane, Abigail Lane, Matthew McGraw and Michael McGraw; great-grandson, Eli Lane; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
A memorial service for Lori will be held Saturday, Nov. 8 at 11 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, 520 N. Decatur St., Watkins Glen; a reception will be announced. Memorial gifts may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Watkins Glen. Condolences or memories may be shared with the family at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
 
Barbara A. Stewart, 68, a cherished member of our Penn Yan community, and a beloved wife, mother and aunt, whose vibrant spirit touched the lives of many, passed away unexpectedly Oct. 12, 2025.
A memorial service celebrating her life will be held Sunday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 224 Main St., Penn Yan, with a reception to follow, where family and friends can gather to share in their memories of her.
Barbara was born in Royal Oak, Michigan, the daughter of Army Sergeant Wilton Campbell and mother Michiko. She worked as an insurance agent for the Fred G. Wright Insurance Agency in Penn Yan for many years, and previously as the Dresden village clerk.
She is survived by her husband, Richard D. Stewart; their son Andrew Stewart; and her darling grand-puppy, Momo.
Barbara was a dedicated member of the Penn Yan First Baptist Church. She served faithfully as the music director for many years. Her contributions extended beyond the church walls; she was an active member of the Council of Churches, volunteered with the Jail Ministry, and chaired the Yates Progressives’ Peace & Justice Award. Her compassion and dedication were evident in her involvement with the Yates County Community Chorus and Yates County Summer Concert Services, where her love for music flourished.
From a young age, music flowed through Barbara’s veins, nurtured by her mother’s encouragement. Whether practicing piano, singing, or sharing her passion for music with others, she brought joy to those around her. As a military family, Barbara experienced life in a variety of states and towns in the country, and eventually settled in Tacoma, Washington. There, she proudly graduated in the top 10 percent of her high school class and pursued higher education, earning her bachelor’s degree in accounting from Western Washington University, where she met her future husband.
Together, their family built their life in Penn Yan, where they raised Andrew, and came to cherish summers at their beloved cottage on Waneta Lake.
Her great musical contributions will be missed by everyone! Her spirit will continue to inspire those who had the privilege to know her, reminding us all of the profound impact one person can have on the lives of many.
Memorial donations in her memory may be made to the First Baptist Church Music Department. Condolences and memories of Barb may be shared with the family at www.WeldonFuneralHome.com. Weldon Funeral Home is assisting the family.
 
Death notices
Robert E. Bump Jr., 54, of Burdett, Oct. 21, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
FORREST H. (WOODY) CLARK JR., 82, of Hammondsport, Oct. 24, 2025. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
Nancy K. Elliott, 83, of Alpine, Oct. 16, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
Sandra A. Garrett, 83, of Dundee, Oct. 19, 2025. Arrangements by Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
Judith A. Henley, 80, formerly of Watkins Glen, Oct. 20, 2025 in Penn Yan. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
David LaMoreaux, 78, of Burdett, Oct. 24, 2025. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
Loretta Maas, 90, of Watkins Glen, Oct. 19, 2025. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
Barbara Stewart, 68, of Penn Yan, Oct. 12, 2025. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.

 

Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of Oct. 22:

Glenn A. Cosh, 55, of Dundee died unexpectedly Friday, Oct. 17, 2025 at Geneva General Hospital, Geneva.
There will be no prior calling hours, and services will be private at the convenience of the family. Memorial contributions may be made to Keuka Comfort Care Home, P.O. Box, 107, Penn Yan, NY 14527.
Glenn was born Feb. 10, 1970 in Newton, New Jersey, the only son of Wayne A. and the late Jacqueline L. (Armstrong) Cosh. He graduated from Frankford School in Branchville, New Jersey in 1989. He was an exemplary participant in the Mosaic Day Habilitation Program in Penn Yan. Glenn led a happy simple go lucky kind of life. He loved life on his family’s farm, riding tractors, and 4x4s. He was always ready to go for a car ride, never skipped a dessert, and cherished his magazines.
He will be missed by all who knew him, but none more than his father Wayne A. Cosh with whom he made his home; his loving sister and best friend Tina M. Roberts of Dundee; a niece Amanda (Clair) Zimmerman of Greenville, Tennessee; a nephew Joshua (Karlene Rivera) Roberts of Naples, New York, great nieces and nephews Alexis and Cameron Zimmerman, and Beau and Barrett Roberts; along with several aunts, uncles and cousins.
He was predeceased by his mother Jacqueline A. Cosh in 2025, his paternal grandparents Percy and Evelyn Cosh, and maternal grandparents William and Mary Rose Armstrong.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
 
Leroy M. Sensenig, age 62 years, 3 months, 1 day, passed away as a result of a biking accident Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025.
All are welcome to attend calling hours Thursday, Oct. 23 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the family home, 1972 Welker Road, Penn Yan.
Funeral services will be held Friday, Oct. 24 at 9:30 a.m. at the Chubb Hollow Old Order Mennonite Church.
Leroy was born July 18, 1963, a son of the late Ezra Z. and Susanna M. Martin Sensenig. He was a member of the Chubb Hollow Old Order Midwest Conference Mennonite Church. Leroy was the owner and operator of Penn Yan Sewing Machine. He enjoyed riding bikes and was out riding with his grandsons when his call home came.
Leroy is survived by his wife, Lucy G. Sensenig; six daughters, Ella (Andrew) Nolt of Penn Yan, Erma (Nathan) Ringler of Himrod, Ruth (Matthew) Hoover of Penn Yan, Rhoda (Harvey) Hoover of Penn Yan, Rachel (Cleason) Weaver of Stanley and Esther (David) Oberholtzer of Himrod; residing in his home and like a son and daughter, Elsie Weaver and grandson Elmer Nolt; 41 grandchildren; siblings, John (Alta) Sensenig, Lucy (Mervin) Hoover and Martha (late Stanley) Martin.
Leroy was predeceased by his parents, infant son, Leon and stillborn grandson, Caleb.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Perkins-Ames Funeral Home of Gorham.
 
Bonnie Mayhood Weber, 85, passed away Monday, Oct. 13, 2025.
She was born July 18, 1940 in Corning, daughter of Walter Kenneth and Vera (Cook) Mayhhod.
Bonnie was a 1958 graduate of Corning Free Academy, in 1962 she received a BSN degree from Alfred University. In 1983 she earned AMPS in Community Services administration from Alfred.
Bonnie married William Arthur Weber, her high school sweetheart, June 12, 1962 in Harkness Tower Chapel, Branford College, New Haven, Connecticut. The couple lived in Santa Clara, California, Branford, Connecticut, Sunnyvale, California, and Wheatley, Oxford, England, before returning to live in Corning in 1969. In 1983 they moved to the family home on Keuka Lake in Pulteney.
Bonnie was employed at Yale Psychiatric Institute in New Haven, and the Palo Alto Veterans Administration Hospital in California in the 60s. She was later employed at Corning Hospital from 1978 until 1998, retiring as Vice President of Human Resources.
While in Corning, Bonnie was involved in varied activities to include PTA, Corning Hospital Chapter A, CH In Service Council, and the Market Street Restoration Committee after the flood of 1972.
She continued community involvement after moving to Keuka Lake: Pulteney Free Library, Southern Tier Library System, Foundation for Southern Tier Libraries, Bath branch American Association of University Women, Hammondsport Women’s Club, and she was the NYS Certified Ombudsman at the Homestead Nursing Home in Penn Yan.
Bonnie was predeceased by her parents, her in-laws Arthur and Margret Weber, brothers Frederick, Daryl and Jerrold Mayhood, and grandson Austin Andrew Weber.
Survivors include husband William, son Arthur William, son Erik Kenneth (Amy Drain) Weber, granddaughters Audrey Nicole Weber, Adrienne Brooke Weber and Dana Nicole Weber, brother Theodore (Nancy Hurd) Mayhood and sister Dixie Lee Coumbe, brothers-in-law John (Dina Press) and James (Juli Lamson), several nieces and nephews, and may dear and precious friends including her Alfred Nursing buddies.
Calling hours will be held at Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, 35 Main St., Hammondsport, Saturday, Oct. 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. where a funeral will be held at 1 p.m.
Burial at Glenview Cemetery, Pulteney, will be at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Pulteney Free Library, 9224 County Route 74, Pulteney, NY 14874 or Foundation for Southern Tier Libraries, 9424 Scott Road, Painted Post, NY 14870.
Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport, is honored to assist Bonnie’s family with the arrangements.
Online condolences or remembrances are welcome on the Facebook page of Bishop-Johnson & DeSanto Funeral Home or at bishopdesanto.com.
 
Death notices
PATRICIA C. BARTLETT, 77, of Bellefonte, Pennsylvania, formerly of Penn Yan, Oct. 6, 2025. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
Leon E. Bonnett, 72, of Penn Yan, Oct. 7, 2025. Arrangements by Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
William E. Brown, 83, of Penn Yan, Oct. 16, 2025. Arrangements by Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
GLENN A. COSH, 55, of Dundee, Oct. 17, 2025 at Geneva General Hospital. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
Leroy M. Sensenig, 62, of Penn Yan, Oct. 19, 2025. Arrangements by Perkins-Ames Funeral Home, Gorham.
BARBARA STEWART, 68, of Penn Yan, Oct. 12, 2025. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.

 

Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of Oct. 15:

Elvin S. Brubacher, age 60 years, 5 months and 8 days, entered into rest Oct. 10, 2025.
Family, friends and neighbors called Tuesday, Oct. 14 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the family home, 4013 Dundee-Himrod Road, Himrod.
Funeral services were held Wednesday, Oct. 15 at 9:30 a.m. at the Eastview Mennonite Church.
Elvin was born May 2, 1965, a son of Ivan S. and Elva Brubacher. He was a member of Eastview Mennonite Church. Elvin owned and operated B&H Builders and El-Mar Farm.
Elvin is survived by his wife, Mary H. Brubacher; children, Warren (Elaine) Brubacher of Penn Yan, RosAnna (Clinton) Sauder of Branchport, Mervin (Susan) Brubacher of Dundee, Stanley Brubacher at home, Lavon (Karen) Brubacher of Dundee, Jay Evan Brubacher, Wilson Brubacher and Vernon Ray Brubacher and Michael Brubacher, all at home; 15 grandchildren; his parents, Ivan S. and Elva W. Brubacher of Narvon, Pennsylvania; siblings, Leon (Florence) Brubacher of Himrod, Stephen (Elsie) Brubacher of Chula, Missouri, Joanna (Johnathan) Nolt of Pembroke, Kentucky, Vernon (Martha) Brubacher of Narvon, Pennsylvania and Edwin (Esther) Brubacher of Narvon, Pennsylvania.
Elvin was predeceased by a stillborn granddaughter, Marcy Dawn Sauder.
The family is being assisted by the Perkins-Ames Funeral Home of Gorham.
 
Betty J. Buckley, 95, of Watkins Glen passed away Oct. 11, 2025.
She was predeceased by her husband of 65 years, Elmer Buckley, in 2013. She was also predeceased by sons-in-law Lyle Dencenburg and Dean Thompson, daughter and son-in-law Connie and Richard Rexford, daughter-in-law Susie Buckley and daughter Shirley (Corriveau) Walker.
She is survived by her children, Linda Dencenburg of Tyrone, Catherine Thompson of Reading Center, Chester Buckley (Helen) of Watkins Glen, Gordon Buckley (Tami Sue) of Beaver Dams and Carl Buckley of Watkins Glen; 27 grandchildren and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.
The family will receive friends and relatives at the Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, 212 E. Fourth St., Watkins Glen, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, followed by a funeral service at 1 p.m. and burial at Union Cemetery of Hector in Burdett. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
You may express condolences to the family or share a memory of Betty online at www.RoyceChedzoy.com.
 
Francis Louis Kotmel, 81, of Montour Falls passed away in his home, surrounded by his three children, Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025 at 5 p.m.
Francis was born April 22, 1944 in Montour Falls to his mother Elsa (Sniszek) Kotmel and his father John Kotmel.
He grew up in a house filled with love and laughter where he was the youngest child of the family, with two older brothers, John and Vincent. He often spoke of the other children he grew up with as well; the many foster brothers his parents took in over the years. Regardless of his companions on any given day, he spent most of his youth hunting, fishing and enjoying the many acres of land surrounding his home “up on the hill.”
Even when he almost lost his leg in a hunting accident that left BBs from a 12 gauge shotgun shell in his leg, he never gave up his love for nature.
He attended Odessa-Montour Central High School, where he was the last of the “four lettermen” having run track as well as having played football, basketball, and baseball. In 1985 he was inducted into the OMCS Sports Hall of Fame and often happily reminisced about his years as a star athlete.
Upon graduation, he earned a scholarship to Ithaca College where he earned a BS in Physical Education. After that he worked as a teacher, and athletic director at Whitesville High School where took a rag tag basketball team well into the state championship tournament.
For years after that Fran worked as the recreational coordinator at Sampson which was a state institution for adults with special needs where he was able to help people who had been left and forgotten to live meaningful lives filled with music, games, and love.
Fran held many positions after that in a wide variety of fields. He worked as a carpenter, a salesman, and businessman. For 10 years he also worked as a property development director for the Seven Lakes Girl Scout Council, building countless unique campgrounds for girls across New York to enjoy, including a treehouse camp.
At around the age of 40 he left the stability of a full time position and ventured into entrepreneurship. He founded two companies. One was Overview Construction and the other was The Family Tree Company. He owned several properties in NYS as well as one in Florida. Even then, he took on new challenges and responsibilities by helping to start a Physical Rehabilitation Center in Lakeland, Florida where he worked as a consultant and a kinesiotherapist. He did similar work in Dublin, Georgia at the VA as well.
When he finally retired he moved back up from Florida to live on the land where he and all his children were raised.
While he held many occupational positions over the years, the titles most important to him were son, brother, husband, father, uncle, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He was a family man through and through.
Francis was also a devoted friend and would gladly lend a hand to anyone in need.
He carried on his parents’ legacy by taking in and caring for children within the community, and always providing a warm bed and an abundance of food and love for those in need. His grandchildren called him “Super Poppy” because of his many heroic feats and narrow escapes from injury and death throughout the years. But sadly, even our heroes must pass from this earth eventually.
Francis was predeceased by his wife Carol, father, John, his mother Elsa, and his brothers John and Vincent.
He is survived by his daughters, Kelly Andrea Kotmel-King and Karen Elizabeth Sherrard; his son, Michael Francis Kotmel; and his nine grandchildren, Aaron King, Joshua King, Jacob King, Nicholas King, Kason Sherrard, Adison Sherrard, Krislyn Kotmel, Maddux Kotmel, and Ryker Kotmel, and one great-grandchild, Roselyn May Langlais-King. He is also survived by his sister-in-law Lovina Kotmel and her four children, Vince Jr., Moe, Brian, and Kathy as well as his eldest brother’s son John Kotmel.
Francis has left a legacy of love, joy, compassion, acceptance, and a deep reverence for this miraculous thing we call life.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations in Francis’s name to the American Cancer Society.
A celebration of life will be held around Thanksgiving at the family home. Details will be shared ASAP. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
 
Edna Catherine Schenck, 96, of Dundee passed away peacefully in her sleep Friday, Oct. 10, 2025 at The Homestead in Penn Yan.
Honoring her wishes there will be no prior calling hours or public service. A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family in Hillside Cemetery, Dundee.
In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to Wayne Fire Dept. or Volunteer Ambulance, P.O. Box 91, Wayne, NY 14893.
Edna was born Sept. 15, 1929 in the town of Potter, one of nine children of Charles Frederick “Archie” and Mary Elizabeth (Webster) McFall. On Aug. 18, 1950 in the Dundee Baptist Church she married Frederick David Schenck, who passed away Nov. 5, 1993. A lifelong area resident, Edna was employed for many years by Seneca Foods, in Dundee, retiring in 1994. A perfectionist by nature, she enjoyed quilting, sewing, and gardening, but her favorite time was spent as a professional baby sitter for her many grandchildren.
She is loved and will be dearly missed by two sons, Gary F. Schenck of Barrington and Richard D. (Patty) Schenck of Orwell, New York; two daughters, Kathy L. (Scott) Pratt of Wayne with whom she made her home in her final years; and Rita D. (Jon Sullivan) Schenck of Sugar Hill, New York; six grandchildren, Michael Pratt, Jessica Stott, Jackquelyn Woodard, Stephanie Mann, Nicole Schenck and Caitlin Middlebrook; six great-grandchildren; four very dear great-great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews.
Besides her husband and parents, she was predeceased by an infant son Michael J. Schenck in 1954, an infant daughter Connie L Schenck in 1956; all of her siblings, four sisters and four brothers, and numerous in-laws.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
 
Laura R. Vanaman, 97, wife of the late Rev. Gerald Vanaman, of Dundee was reunited with her Lord and Savior and her husband Friday, Oct. 10, 2025.
Honoring her wishes, there will be no prior calling hours. She will be buried in the Barrington Community Church Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 16. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. in the Barrington Community Church, 4560 Old Bath Road, Dundee, with her son-in-law Deacon Carl Clark officiating.
She requested no flowers, but rather those wishing to send memorial contributions to either the Barrington Community Church, P.O. Box 73, Dundee, NY 14837 or the Lamoka Lake Baptist Camp P.O. Box 70, Tyrone, NY 14887.
Laura was born May 22, 1928 in North East, Pennsylvania, the daughter of Earl and Ethel (Smith) Crawford. She graduated from Homer High School in 1945, continuing her education graduating from Practical Bible College in Johnson City in 1952. On June 21, 1953 in Cortland she married her soul mate Gerald F. Vanaman. They have lived locally since 1956, previously of Meadville, Pennsylvania. Together, they became the pillars of the Barrington Church. As the minister’s wife, Mrs. Vanaman was very active in the church, as choir director, Sunday school teacher, and instrumental in the youth programs. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing and quilting. For many years, she worked with the late John Thomas bundling grape cuttings for nurseries.
She is dearly loved and will be forever missed by two sons, John C. (Maureen) Vanaman of Penn Yan and James E. Vanaman of Lakemont; two daughters, Cindy L. (Carl) Clark of Dundee and Lynda R. (James) Parsons also of Penn Yan; six grandchildren, Michael Vanaman, K-Leigh Vanaman, Shalyn Miller, Casandra Harris, Courtney Sullivan and Shanika Clark; 11 great-grandchildren, Hannah Vanaman, James McFall, Aubree Harris, Clare Vanaman, Desmond Jimenez, Adaleigh Sullivan, Parker Turner, MaryJane Miller, Joseph Miller III, Oakley Sullivan and Preslee Sullivan; along with several nieces and nephews.
She was predeceased by her husband on July 1, 2018; her daughter-in-law Rose Marie Vanaman on July 19, 2012, a brother George Crawford during WWII; and two sisters, Blanche Hughston of Homer, New York, and Shirley Owen of Canastota, New York.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
 
Death notices
Elvin S. Brubacher, 60, of Himrod, Oct. 10, 2025. Arrangements by Perkins-Ames Funeral Home, Gorham.
Betty J. Buckley, 95, of Watkins Glen, Oct. 11, 2025. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
Francis Louis Kotmel, 81, of Montour Falls, Oct. 1, 2025 at home. Arrangements by Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home, Watkins Glen.
CAROL L. (TAYLOR) ROBINSON, 57, of Pulteney, Oct. 4, 2025 at home. Arrangements by Bishop-Johnston & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.
Edna C. Schenck, 96, of Dundee, Oct. 10, 2025 at The Homestead. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
Laura R. Vanaman, 97, of Dundee, Oct. 10, 2025. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.

 

Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of Oct. 8:

Charles F. Martz, 94, of Dundee passed away Monday, Sept. 29, 2025 at Keuka Comfort Care Home in Penn Yan.
Honoring his wishes there will be no calling hours or public service. He will be interred in Hillside Cemetery in Dundee at the convenience of his family.
Those wishing to make memorial contributions in his name may consider Dundee Fire Company Emergency Squad, 12 Union St., Dundee, NY 14837, or the Keuka Comfort Care Home, P.O. Box, 107, Penn Yan, NY 14527.
Charles was born Aug. 28, 1931 in Seneca Falls, the only child of Charles C. and Gertrude (Rhodes) Martz. On Sept. 30, 1951 in Penn Yan, he married the love of his life, soul mate Joanne P. Barr. They enjoyed just shy of 69 years of marriage when she passed away Aug. 27, 2020, the day before his birthday. It was only fitting that he passed away the day before what would have been their 74th anniversary, in time to go and find her for eternity.
Charlie was employed by Watkins Salt Co. and built his own home with the help of family and friends, getting some of the materials from Sampson Barracks that were being torn down. He then started working for Cadwell Construction as a carpenter, built his garage the same way and remodeled the interior of his home over the years. In 1963 he began work at Mercury Aircraft of Hammondsport for 26 years, retiring in 1989. He was a member of the Dundee Methodist Church, Seneca Lake Duck Hunters, the Bath Coin Club, and a devoted member of S.T.B.A. Southern Tier Bluegrass Assoc. His love of music which he shared with his wife, and passed down to his children and grandchildren was his true joy in life. They also enjoyed hunting, fishing, and camping whenever able.
He is survived by two sons, Charles W. Martz with whom he made his home, and Chris F. Martz; a grandson Shawn Martz, both of Dundee; a great-grandson Zeth Ryean Martz of Mount Morris, New York and three great-great-grandchildren; along with two of 20 in-laws, and numerous nieces, nephews, and one of five cousins.
Arrangements entrusted to the Baird Funeral Home, 36 Water St., Dundee. Online condolences can be sent by visiting www.bairdfuneralhomedundee.com.
 
Velma Marie (Myers) Pratt, 85, of Watkins Glen, lately at Bethany Village in Horseheads, passed away peacefully Sept. 29, 2025.
Marie was born April 6, 1940, the only child of Clarence and Emma Rummerfield. A military family, they lived in many places around the country, ending up in Mount Holly, New Jersey.
She was predeceased by her first husband Michael F. Myers, second husband Bernard Pratt, and third husband Lemuel Myers. She is survived by four children and their spouses, Michael (Terri) Myers of Burdett, Kathy (Easton) Martin of Jacksonville, Florida, Thomas (Kim) Myers of Sayre, Pennsylvania and Joseph Myers of Clearfield, Utah; also nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Marie’s family would like to give a special thank you to the staff of Bethany Courtyards Assisted Living for their kind and compassionate care.
At the family’s request, there are no funeral services. You may leave condolences for the family in her guestbook at www.RoyceChedzoy.com. Royce-Chedzoy Funeral Home of Watkins Glen is assisting the family.
 
Death notices
William T. Atwood Sr., 88, of Montour Falls, Oct, 2, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
Signa M. Bauman, 93, of Watkins Glen, Oct. 2, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
Carolyn Knowlton, 85, of Watkins Glen, Oct. 2, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
CHARLES F. MARTZ, 94, of Dundee, Sept. 29, 2025 at Keuka Comfort Care Home, Penn Yan. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
VELMA M. (MYERS) PRATT, 85, of Watkins Glen, Sept. 29, at Bethany Village, Horseheads.
ADDA M. WALCZAK, 98, of Hammondsport, Sept. 23, 2025 at Highland Hospital ICU, Rochester. Arrangements by Bishop & DeSanto Funeral Home, Hammondsport.

 

Obituaries/Memorial/Death Notices week of Oct. 1:

It is with profound sadness that the family of Frances “Fran” E. Secord, announces her passing Wednesday, Sept. 24, 2025 at the age of 79, after a year-long battle with lung cancer.
Fran was born May 11, 1946 in Montour Falls to Harry and Ruth (Bement) Tuttle.
Fran retired from Cornell University’s NYS School of Industrial Labor and Relations after 28 years of employment. She was a member of Burdett Presbyterian Church, volunteered at the Office for the Aging, and Wags to Riches. She also enjoyed baking cookies for the weekly “coffee club” meetings at Burger King.
Fran is survived by her daughter Michele; a grandson, MacKenzie; great-granddaughters, Ariah and Victoria; brothers, Jim and Harold Tuttle; her best gal pals, Mary Lou Rappleye and Marion Stallings; along with her favorite niece, Diane Carl.
Fran is predeceased by her parents; her loving husband, Harold; brothers, Charlie, Bucky, Herbie, Bobby, and Jack; and sisters, Ellen Voorhees, Ruth Anna Smith and Jeanne Payne.
A celebration of life “Coffee Hour” will be held Saturday, Oct. 18, from 9-11 a.m. at the Burdett Fire Department, 4124 Lake Ave., Burdett. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Burdett Presbyterian Church, 3995 Church St., Burdett, NY 14818, the Burdett Fire Department, 4124 Lake Ave., Burdett, NY 14818 and/or the Human Society of Schuyler County, 124 Marina Dr., Montour Falls, NY 14865.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls. To leave the family a message of condolence, please visit www.vedderscottzinger.com.
 
Chad P. Sheehan, 52, of Penn Yan passed away Tuesday, Sept. 16, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.
He leaves behind his parents Cheryl and John “Pete” Sheehan whom he loved and adored, his brothers Sam and his partner Heather, and Kevin, who were always by his side, and his beloved nieces and nephews, Sadie, Hunter, Tinley and Eloise; his aunts and uncles Patricia, David Cermack, and Brenda, Parker Reynolds, his cousins, and countless number of friends. He was a longtime loving pet parent and leaves behind a much adored beagle named Snoopy, who misses him immensely already.
Chad was predeceased by his grandparents, John and Ellen Nelson Sheehan, and Albert and Eva Richards Curtis; and uncles, Albert Curtis Jr. and Dewey “Punky” Curtis. Chad was an eternal optimist. This was best exemplified by his absolute love of the Buffalo Bills. At the start of every season, he let everyone know it was going to be their year. Inevitably when that didn’t happen, there was always next year. He will forever be heard proclaiming “Bills Rule All,” and to his nephew Hunter, “Always carry a big stick and kick ass!” Chad’s greatest achievements came personally as he overcame a debilitating accident in 1995, with the overwhelming support of the Penn Yan community, his family and friends. His subsequent determination was the stuff of legend, leading him to intensely focus on his academics as he pursued and was awarded his associate’s degree from FLCC in human services, followed by a bachelor’s degree in organizational management at Keuka College, then an MBA from the University of Phoenix and a master’s degree in social work from Fordham University. Chad used his knowledge and compassion to impact those he served.
Chad worked as a case manager at Finger Lakes Health, and was just weeks away of achieving his ultimate goal as a licensed therapist, a care management supervisor at Mozaic, an adjunct professor at Keuka and Corning Colleges, and as a NYS real estate broker. He was also invited to speak annually to the high school students of Penn Yan Academy.
Calling hours will be Friday, Oct. 17 from 5-8 p.m. at Weldon Funeral Home, 102 E. Main St., Penn Yan, and again the following day (Saturday, Oct. 18) from 12-1 p.m. with a service immediately following beginning at 1 p.m. at the funeral home. A celebration of life will follow at the Penn Yan Elks Club in Penn Yan on the same day.
Donations may be made in Chad’s memory to the John D. Kelly Clinic c/o Finger Lakes Health Foundation, 196 North St. Geneva, NY 14456 or online at flhealth.org/make-a-donation or to the Humane Society of Yates County-Shelter of Hope, PO Box 12 Penn Yan NY 14527.
Condolences and memories may be left for the family to read in his guestbook at www.WeldonFuneralHome.com.
 
Death notices
Lucinda G. “Cindy” Bacon, 88, of Montour Falls, Sept. 24, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
Shirley A. Condella, 92, formerly of Penn Yan, Sept. 24, 2025. Arrangements by Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
BETTY J. FLAHERTY, 82, of Prattsburg, Sept. 23, 2025 at The Homestead. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
Karen M. Furman, 72, of Penn Yan, Sept. 21, 2025. Arrangements by Townsend-Wood & Zinger Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
Beulah Johnson, 101, of Montour Falls, Sept. 22, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
ETHAN T. PARKER, 12, of Penn Yan, Sept. 20, 2025. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
Frances E. “Fran” Secord, 79, of Burdett, Sept. 24, 2025. Arrangements by Vedder-Scott & Zinger Funeral Home, Montour Falls.
CHAD P. SHEEHAN, 52, of Penn Yan, Sept. 16, 2025. Arrangements by Weldon Funeral Home, Penn Yan.
PAUL W. THOMPSON, 58, of the town of Reading, Sept. 22, 2025 at home. Arrangements by Baird Funeral Home, Dundee.
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