Ezio A. Fiacco

Ezio Anthony Fiacco, 92, of 38 Oak Street, Hornell, NY, passed away on December 26th at St. James Mercy Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Torrice, Italy on June 29th, 1929, he was the son of the late Stephen and Mary (Panfili) Fiacco.

Ezio immigrated to the United States in 1938 at the age of nine. His family settled in Hornell, NY where he attended St. Ann’s School and graduated from Hornell High School in 1948.

In 1951, he was drafted into the U.S. Army where he proudly served his country during the Korean War, eventually attaining the rank of Corporal, as a paratrooper with the 187th Airborne Infantry Regiment (Rakkasans).  He was a recipient of the Army of Occupation Medal, Korea Defense Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, United Nations Korea Medal, and Good Conduct Medal.

After being honorably discharged from his military service in 1953, he returned home to Hornell, where he resumed his career at Stern and Stern Textile Mill. He retired in 1994 as Manager of the Weaving Department after 46 years of service to the company in various roles. He also assisted his family at Fiacco’s Bakery in Hornell for many years, as well as working at the bar owned by his cousins, the Lisi’s.

Ezio is survived by his wife of 68 years, Mary (Colomaio) Fiacco, whom he married at St. Ann’s Church on August 1st, 1953; his two children, Stephen (Gerri) Fiacco of Warren, NJ and Richard (Kirsten) Fiacco of Corning, NY; his five grandchildren, Derek, Kyle, MaryClaire, Matthew, and Gina Fiacco; his two brothers Robert Fiacco of Hornell, NY and Stephen Fiacco of Brockton, MA; brother-in-law Leo Tuite of Brockton, MA; and many nieces and nephews.

Ezio was preceded in death by his twin sisters who died at birth, and his beloved sister, Edda (Fiacco) Tuite, of Brockton, MA.

He was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church in Hornell, where he served as an altar boy and usher for many years, and could be seen sitting in the back row of Mass with his extended family. His other memberships included the Knights of Columbus Hornell Council 243, Arthur H. Cunningham American Legion Post 440, Carducci Lodge (Sons of Italy), and the Hornell Moose Lodge.

He enjoyed woodworking, daily walks, tending to his lawn, bushes, and garden, and watching New York Yankees games. Above all else, he loved spending his retirement with his grandchildren, attending their school activities and sporting events, and telling them stories of his childhood in Italy, military service in Korea, and travels stateside and abroad for his career.

A private family viewing will be held at Dagon Funeral Home.  Family & friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Saturday January 1st, 2022 at 11:30 AM at St. Ann’s Church. Burial with military funeral honors will be at Bath National Cemetery.

Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone attending the Funeral Mass will be required to wear a facemask.  Thank you for your cooperation.

A “Celebration of Life” will be held in June, 2022 at a time & place to be announced.

Ezio’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 1000 – Dept. 300, Memphis, TN 38148.

Robert C. “Bob” D’Apice

Robert C. “Bob” D’Apice – 73 – of 17 Meadowbrook Dr., Arkport, died unexpectedly Friday afternoon (December 24, 2021) at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on October 8, 1948, he was the son of Robert & Genevieve “June” (Cole) D’Apice.

Bob grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1967).  Following high school graduation, he was employed for a time at Gleason’s in Rochester prior to working at the Erie Lackawanna Railroad.

He was a Veteran of the US Army, serving his country from 1968 – 1970 during the Vietnam era.  While in the Army, Bob was stationed in Korea.

Following his honorable discharge from the military, Bob returned to the Hornell area and resumed working for the railroad.  It was at that time that he served a four year apprenticeship to become a licensed electrician and later becoming employed at Corning Glass Works.

Along with his wife, Pat, Bob established D’Apice Market on River St., Hornell, which they owned & operated for several years.  As a licensed electrician, Bob established B/D Electric of Hornell, a full electrical supply store.  For the past 30 years, he served as an electrical inspector for Atlantic-Inland Inc., N.Y.

A resident of the Arkport area since 1975, Bob was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.

Bob was currently a member of the American Legion and past commander of the Arkport American Legion where he served as a member of the American Legion Honor Guard. Through the years he served on several committees at the county level, in 2015-16 Bob served as the Steuben County American Legion Commander. Currently he was assistant sergeant of arms, executive committee and delegate to the district. In addition to his American Legion Service he has also served as the Steuben County Sons of American Legion Commander and has served as the SAL Chair Liaison of the county American Legion.

Bob was an avid Buffalo Bills Football fan and also loved rooting for the Ohio State Buckeyes.  A true “family man” he loved the time that he spent with family and especially loved camping during the summer months.

He was married on March 4, 1972 to the former Patricia “Pat” Taylor who survives.  Also surviving are his daughter, Crystal (Robert) Henshaw of Arkport; 2 brothers, Randy (Connie) D’Apice of Hornell and Andrew D’Apice of Pensacola, FL; 1 sister, Anna Baker of Hornell; 2 grandchildren, Jacob Henshaw and Chloee Henshaw of Arkport; niece Deanna D’Apice of Hornell; nephews Daniel D’Apice of Hawaii and Peter Persichilli of Hornell.

The family of Robert C. “Bob” D’Apice will receive friends on Thursday from 2:00 PM  –  4:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  Funeral services with full military honors will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 4:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, NY.

Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone attending calling hours or the funeral service will be required to wear a face mask.

Bob’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Ann’s Academy, 41 Genesee St., Hornell, NY or the Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Rd., Hornell, NY  14843.   Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

In recognition of Bob’s service to his country as a member of the US Army, the American Flag at the Dagon Funeral home will be flown at half-staff.

Judie A. Perez

Geneseo, New York

Judie A. Perez, 71, of Geneseo, NY died peacefully at home with her family by her side on December 18th, 2021.

Judie was born in 1950 in Idaho, and was the daughter of Andrew & Virginia (Anderson) Trease.  She lived in several locations including Nevada, Idaho, Alaska, and New York. She had resided in the Geneseo area for the past 9 years.

She married the love of her life, Nelson, in 1969 in Elko, Nevada. She resided in Nevada and Alaska for most of her life before moving to Geneseo, NY to be closer to her son & his family.

Judie is survived by her loving husband, Nelson; their son and daughter-in-law Victor (Amy) Perez; grandchildren Megan (Joseph) Semmel, Victoria and Katharine Perez and her sister Christine and several nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents, Judie was preceded by 3 sisters, Candice “Candi”, Dorothy, and Peggy.

Due to COVID-19 no prior calling hours will be held at this time. Funeral services will be held privately at the convenience of the family. A celebration of life will be held on a later date at the Loon Lake Chapel.

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

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the Livingston County Hospice, 2 Murray Hill Drive, Attn: Hospice Agency, Mt. Morris, NY 14510.

Thank you to the many friends and family that have supported us during this difficult time.

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

 

Joseph N. Brazen

Joseph  N. “Joe” Brazen – 65 – of 90 Hartshorn St., Hornell, died early Friday morning (December 17, 2021) at Strong Memorial Hospital following a long illness.

Born in Scranton, PA on august 12, 1956, he was the son of Joseph & Edna (Rosofsky) Brazen.

Joe grew up in Hornell and attended Hornell High School where he was a member of the HHS Wrestling Team and the HHS Soccer Team.  He later played in the Men’s Soccer League in Alfred, NY.

He was a veteran of the United States Marine Corp, serving his country from 1974 – 1978 (Active Duty) and from 1978 – 1980 (Reserves).  While serving in the Marines, Joe was stationed in many locations, including Okinawa, Japan and the Philippines.

Following his honorable discharge from the Marines, Joe was employed for about 3 years at Alfred State College (SUNY Alfred) working in the Food Service Department.  He was later employed as a machinist at General Marble in Hornell and for about 20 years worked at Polly-O in Campbell, NY.  He retired in 2020.

Joe was an avid golfer & fisherman and also enjoyed watching NFL Football.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Kim Chase who died in 2008.

Surviving are his mother, Edna Brazen of Hornell; his brother, Brandon (Jackie) Chace of Hornell; his nephew, Kyle (Joanna) Porter of Virginia Beach, VA.

At Joe’s request there  will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family with final interment in the Bath National Cemetery, Bath, NY.

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

Joe’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758516, Topeka, KS  66675-8516

Dr. Virginia T. Shephard

Dr. Virginia Shephard

Dr. Virginia T. Shephard (Eveland) – (62) – of McHenry Valley Road, Almond, formerly of Hornell, passed away peacefully at her home on December 14, 2021 surrounded by her loving family.

She was born in Hornell on February 27, 1959. She was the devoted daughter of the late Thomas & Beverly Eveland (Buono).

Virginia grew up on the East Side of Hornell where she attended Bryant School and was a graduate of Hornell Senior High School (Class of 1977.)  In 1981 she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Bio-Chemistry from Niagara University.  She went on to receive her Doctor of Medicine Degree in 1985 from the State University of New York at Buffalo and in 1988 received her Resident in Family Practice at St. Vincent’s Health Center in Erie, PA.

Returning to Hornell in 1988, Virginia began her medical career by taking over the practice of longtime physician Dr. Paul J. Wolfgruber.  Throughout the years, she touched the lives of her many patients while working every department of St. James Mercy Hospital.  When St. James closed its doors, Virginia continued her commitment to the Hornell community by working with Dr. Bruce MacKellar at the Canisteo Valley Family Practice in Hornell.  She retired on October 2nd, 2019 due to ill health.

Virginia was married on July 20, 2019 to Michael “Mike” Sciotti, her devoted husband who survives.  Also surviving are her children, Lesley Andrews (Shephard) of Rochester, Paul Shephard III of Bloomington, IN, Brianne Eveland of Rochester and Ciara Cuesta of Schenectady.

Additionally, she is survived by her sisters, Patricia (Gerry) Flaitz of Hartsville, Marlene (Mike) Sullivan of Bath, and her brothers, Thomas (Deanna) Eveland of Salt Lake City, UT and Mark Eveland of Hornell; brother-in-law Paul (Barbara) Sciotti of Mechanicsburg, PA; 4 step-children, and several nieces & nephews.

A communicant of St. Ann’s Church, Virginia enjoyed singing in their annual Holiday Cantata.  She was also a member of the G. Carducci Lodge (Sons of Italy). Virginia had many hobbies and interests. She enjoyed going to casinos and visiting Las Vegas, drawing, sewing, and attending Broadway shows. She also enjoyed going to trivia, playing Euchre, golfing, swimming, and dancing. Virginia loved going on vacation and enjoyed her annual trips to Myrtle Beach with her family. She loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills and watching the NBA. Virginia also loved music, and especially enjoyed listening to the songs of the 70’s and Motown. She went to many concerts and music events with her friends and family.

Virginia will be remembered as a loving wife, mother & sister who loved her family with all of her heart.  She will also be remembered as a dedicated & caring physician who was devoted to her many patients.  Throughout the years, Virginia touched the lives of anyone that had the pleasure of knowing her.  She will be greatly missed!

The family of Dr. Virginia T. Shephard will receive friends on Thursday, December 23rd 2021, from 2:00PM until 5:00PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a future date.

Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone will be required to wear a facemask at the Dagon Funeral Home.  Your cooperation is greatly appreciated!

Virginia’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the National Parkinson’s Foundation, PO Box 23204, Rochester, NY  14692.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home. You may also donate by visiting https://www.parkinson.org.

Jo Ann Hoffman

Jo Ann Hoffman

Jo Ann Hoffman – 84 – a longtime Buffalo resident, died late Saturday evening (December 11, 2021) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility, where she had resided for the past 7 years.

Born in Hornell on July 26, 1937, she was the daughter of Harold & Elizabeth (Swackhamer) Hoffman.

Jo Ann grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1956).  She resided in the Buffalo, NY area for most of her adult life and had been employed for several years at St. Rita’s Home for Children (run by Catholic Nuns) as a health care provider & caregiver for children with Down’s Syndrome.  For many years she served as a Nurse’s Aide and caregiver for a Lutheran run Nursing Home in Buffalo.  She retired about 19 years ago.

In her younger years, Jo Ann was a communicant of the former St. Ignatius Loyola Church.  While living in Buffalo, she was an active member of St. James Church where she volunteered countless hours on various projects.  Jo Ann enjoyed traveling was grateful for having had the opportunity to visit the Holy Land as well as Ireland.  Jo Ann was an avid Buffalo Bills Football fan and loved rooting for the team, especially during the Super Bowl years.  She also loved to spend her time reading and listening to music.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, John Hoffman; 2 sisters, Margaret Thurston and Carol Thompson.

Surviving are her twin sister, Mary Ann Sullivan of Lyons, MI; 3 brothers, Thomas (Marianne) Hoffman of Wellsville, Stephen (JoAnn) Hoffman of Bunnell, FL and William “Bill” Hoffman of Hornell; her brother-in-law, David Thompson; her sister-in-law, Liz Hoffman; many nieces & nephews.

At Jo Ann’s request there will be no calling hours.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (December 21, 2021) at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.  Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

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

Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone will be required to wear a facemask at St. Ann’s Church.

Jo Ann’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

A special “Thank-You” goes out to the wonderful staff at Elderwood Nursing Facility for the loving care and compassion shown to Jo Ann and her entire family.

Liam P. Conley

Liam Conley

Liam P. Conley – 24 – of 15 Armory Pl., Hornell, died Saturday afternoon (December 11, 2021) at his home, following a brief illness.

Born in Tuscaloosa, AL on March 31, 1997, he was the son of David & Linda (Kopilash) Conley.

Liam grew up in Tuscaloosa and received his high school diploma from the State of Alabama after being home-schooled by his parents.

A resident of Hornell for the past 9 years, Liam attended Alfred State College.  While living in Alabama, he was a member of the Lakewood Baptist Church in Northport, AL.

Liam was an avid NASCAR fan and his favorite drivers were Dale Earnhardt JR and Jeff Gordon.  He was also enjoyed rooting for the University of Alabama Crimson Tide Football Team.  Liam was a computer programmer and a true “Gamer” who loved playing online video games with other “computer buffs”.  He also enjoyed volunteering his time at the Hornell Public Library.  He looked forward to taking his daily walks throughout the Hornell community, visiting local stores and stopping to “chit-chat” with Hornell residents.

He was preceded in death by his paternal grandfather, Clarence Conley.

Surviving are his parents, David & Linda Conley of Hornell; maternal grandparents, Robert & Margaret Kopilash of Ocala, FL; his paternal grandmother, Andrea (Ronald) Benedict of Hornell; many aunts, uncles & cousins.

There will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family with final interment in Alabama.

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

Liam’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Public Library, 64 Genesee St., Hornell, NY.

George H. “Joe” Richardson

George Richardson

George H. “Joe” Richardson – 66 – of 451 Pleasant Valley Road, Alfred Station died unexpectedly Thursday morning (December 9, 2021) at his home.  He was a resident of St Petersburg, FL.

Born in Bangor, ME on February 7, 1955 and was the son of George Richardson and Carolyn “Pat” (O’Connor) Richardson.

Joe grew up in Hornell and later resided in Treasure Island, FL for several years.  He returned to Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1973).  He was a member of the Hornell Red Raider Swim Team and also a member of the of the school band.

He was hired at Alfred State College in 1980 in the Building Trades Department. While working at Alfred State College, he earned his Associates Degree from Empire College. He was a full time Professor and was later promoted to Chair and also served as the Dean of Alfred State College, Wellsville Division. He retired after 37 years of service. Joe was an extraordinarily skilled carpenter and cabinetmaker. He designed custom pieces for many members of the community and in his own homes.

Joe was a member of Christ Episcopal Church in Hornell, where he was as an altar server. He was a member of the G. Carducci Lodge Sons of Italy in Hornell and the Italian American Society of St Petersburg.

Having a passion for the water and water activities, Joe would often be found swimming laps at the YMCA. He was a certified scuba diving instructor and taught diving classes at Alfred State College. As a master certified diver, Joe enjoyed diving in the ocean and in the Finger Lakes.  He also served as a swim official for local swim meets for many years.

Joe enjoyed sports and especially loved rooting for the New York Yankees, Tampa Bay Rays and the Buffalo Bills.  He also enjoyed college basketball and football and was a Syracuse, Florida State & Clemson fan.

Having many hobbies, Joe enjoyed gardening, especially growing garlic and peppers. He loved the craft of wine making and sharing a glass with friends. Joe had a passion for music, he played the saxophone and acoustic guitar, and he enjoyed live music and attending concerts. He loved to help his community and would often volunteer at the Tampa Bay Watch.

Joe was married on August 2, 1980 to the former René Porcaro who survives.  Also surviving are two daughters, Julie (Philip) Rubin of Tallahassee, FL and Jill (Craig) Reeves of Hanahan, SC; one brother, Steve Richardson of Brockport, NY; many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, & cousins.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Carolyn.

The family of George H. “Joe” Richardson will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM  – 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church.

The Funeral Mass for Joe will be streamed live and can be viewed on the Dagon Funeral Home Facebook page on Friday at 10:00 AM by visiting www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.  The video will remain available for viewing on our Facebook page for 30 days.

Due to recent New York State mandates, everyone will be required to wear a facemask at the Dagon Funeral Home and at St. Ann’s Church.  Your cooperation is appreciated!

Joe’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to either the Hornell YMCA, 18 Center St., Hornell, NY 14843 or St. Ann’s Academy, 41 Genesee St., Hornell, NY.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

Isabelle P. Hillman

Isabelle Hillman

Isabelle P. “Izzie” Hillman – (92) – formerly of 50 East Main St., Hornell, died Tuesday afternoon (December 7, 2021) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility where she had resided for the past 1 ½ years.

Born in Hornell on November 25, 1929, she was the daughter of Claude & Georgette (Raviol) Perrin.

Izzie grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of St. Ann’s School and Hornell High School (class of 1947).  Following high school she was employed for several years as a telephone operator for New York Telephone.  For many years she worked in the Catalog Department of the former Sears & Roebuck store in Hornell.

She was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  Isabelle was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading novels.  Izzie loved crocheting and, throughout the years, created beautiful Afghans which she gave to all of her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many friends.  She also enjoyed the time that she spent simply sitting on the front porch visiting with her family & friends.

Isabelle was married on February 24, 1951 to Leo A. Hillman who died May 24, 2014.  She was also preceded in death by 2 sons, Thomas Hillman (died April 7, 1994) and Michael Hillman died January 24, 1988).

Surviving are her daughter, Roseanne “Rose” Hunt of Hornell; 2 sons, Steven (Sandy) Hillman of Carmel, CA and Joseph Hillman of Davie, FL; many grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; several nieces & nephews.

At Isabelle’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private graveside services at St. Mary’s Cemetery will be held at the convenience of the family with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

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

Izzie’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.

Her family would also like to thank all of the wonderful caregivers on Cranberry Lane at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility for the wonderful care provided to Izzie during her final days.

Michael A. Carbone

Michael Carbone

Michael A. “Mike” Carbone – 45 – of 5124 Jenkins Henry Rd., Hornell (Town of Hartsville) died Monday afternoon (December 6, 2021) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on November21, 1976, he was the son of Joseph & Mary (Wyant) Carbone.

Michael grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1996).  He had been employed for several years as a detail shop manager and tow truck driver at Maple City Dodge and later as a tow truck driver for Covered Wagon in Hornell.  For about three years Mike served in the maintenance department and also a member of the road paint crew for the New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT).  Most recently he worked as a detailer at Bockman Auto in Wellsville, NY.

He had been a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  Michael loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting (deer & small game) and fishing.  He also was a New York Yankee fan and enjoyed rooting for the Buffalo Bills (NFL).  His favorite joy came from simply spending time with his family and attending his children’s & step children’s sporting & school events.

Michael was married on July 18, 2015 to the former Marian Wood who survives.  Also surviving are his children, Mickayla Carbone, Jonathan Carbone, Bailey Carbone & Matthew Carbone, all of Hornell; his step-children, Alyssa (Jacob Lynch) Riddle of Lima, McKenzy Riddle of Painted Post, Brock (Alivia Phenes) Sorber of Corning & Westin Sorber of Campbell; his parents, Joseph & Mary Carbone of Hornell; his brother, Joseph (Misti) Carbone of Hartsville; 1 niece, Kaitlyn Carbone; 2 nephews, Alex Lockwood and Dominic Lockwood; several aunts & uncles.

The family of Michael A. “Mike” Carbone will receive friends on Wednesday from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Michael’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the charity of the donor’s choice.