Hornell, New York

When Joe Petrick was in the room, you noticed. He stood six four and weighed over two-forty. He played offensive tackle for Hobart football on a full scholarship, and a scholar he turned-out to be. After his readings of W. S. Burroughs and other authors like Octavio Paz, Susan Sontag and Samuel Beckett, Joe lost interest in football. He moved on to literature and cinema studies, developing a keen and inclusive mind which he kept in agile condition right up to his last hours on earth.

Joseph A. Petrick was born in Binghamton, New York, on August 8, 1954, the son of Joseph and Pauline (nee Engates) Petrick. He grew up in Conklin. Joe passed while in palliative care at Strong Memorial on October 22, 2024 at the age of seventy. Joe leaves behind many special friends and family including his wife of thirteen years, Jane Vavala of Hornell, NY, sister Pam Smith, niece Ronica and nephew Nick Smith of Binghamton, and Jane’s daughter Jennifer Vavala of San Diego. He was preceded in death by his parents and his older sister Jolene Petrick, also from Binghamton.

Looks can be deceiving. Years ago, while attending film school at NYU, Joe made a short film in New York City. He’d walk around some rough neighborhoods at night, filming compelling images that he came across. He frequently wore an iconic black leather motorcycle jacket which contributed to an intimidating appearance. Joe was, however, a lover not a fighter. He was kind and gentle, soft-spoken and understanding.

Several portraits of Joe were done by his close friends, artists Gail Foster and Tom Swanston. That leather jacket lasted a long time and appears in at least one oil painting by Gail and in a large charcoal drawing by Tom. Joe had a great understanding and appreciation of art and purchased numerous pieces over the years. In Gail’s words, “Few spirits have touched me like Joe has. He certainly touched my heart, gave me fuel in my art and life.”

Joe was known as “Buddy” to his sister Pam. They remained close throughout their lives and she always turned to him for advice. She remembers her father Joseph encouraging Joe in sports. Joe won the NY Section IV heavyweight wrestling title as a high school senior.

Joe graduated with a BA in literature from Hobart College where he met his life-long friends Tom Swanston and Dan Reilly, and later, Dan’s wife Aggie Pelletieri. He received a master’s in Library Science from Clarion University and a PhD in Communications from the University at Buffalo. He became Director of St. Mary’s Public Library in Pennsylvania and eventually Library Director at SUNY Alfred State College where he received the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Librarianship, 2006-07.

Active in all aspects of university service, Joe served both on the Alfred State campus faculty senate and as a representative to the SUNY University Faculty Senate. He enjoyed researching the histories of Alfred State and SUNY. His article, “Varied Missions in America’s Largest ‘Comprehensive University,’ an Introduction,” was included as a chapter in the book “SUNY at 60, the Promise of the State University of New York,” published in 2010.

Joe met Jane at St. Mary’s Public Library where Jane was also a librarian. Several years later, in 2011, they married. Joe was Jane’s best friend. Together, they enjoyed kayaking, traveling and biking. Joe and Jane love each other very much.

There will be no calling hours. A celebration of Joe’s beautiful life will occur at a date to be announced.

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

Donations in Joe’s name can be made to the charity of one’s choice.

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

Hornell, New York

Kimberly Ann Bancroft – 39 – of Hornell NY, unexpectedly passed at about 4:20 AM October 20th, 2024 at her home.

Kimmie was born Thanksgiving day 1984, (11/22/1984) to Jennifer Cotten and Roy Bancroft.

She grew up in Birdsall, NY attending Canaseraga Central School and Wildwood BOCES. She also worked at the Swain Ski Resort.

Kim was a dedicated housewife and caretaker. She had a very large heart and enjoyed caring for the elderly and children. Kim was also very creative she enjoyed crocheting, making jewelry, painting and coloring. Traveling and adventuring were also among her favorite hobbies.

She was preceded in death by her father, Roy M. Bancroft.

Kimberly is survived by her three children, Emily Bancroft of Rockledge, FL, Logan Bancroft of York, NY and Kasey George of Hornell; her husband of twelve years, Jacob George; her mother, Jennifer Cotten of Cape Canaveral, FL; her stepmother, Marilyn Brown of Birdsall; her three brothers, Edward Bancroft of Birdsall, Christopher Bancroft of  Honeoye Falls, NY and Kevin Bancroft of Olean, NY; her sister Mary Jane Fanton of Pavilion, NY; as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Private services will be held Wednesday at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY at the convenience of the family.

Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” on Thursday beginning at 3:00 PM at the Birdsall Firehall, Birdsall, NY.

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

Memorial contributions in Kimberly’s name may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Elmira, New York

Belinda A. “Sam” (May) Wagner – 63 – of 247 Watercure Hill Road, Elmira, NY died Thursday morning (October 10, 2024) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Elmira on August 26, 1961, she was the daughter of Adolph “Sonny” & Carol (Dixon) May.

Sam grew up in Elmira and was a graduate of Elmira Free Academy (class of 1979).  Throughout the years she had been employed as a waitress at several restaurants and diners in the Elmira area.

An avid NASCAR fan (favorite driver was Michael Waltrip), Sam also enjoyed horseback riding and in her younger years loved equestrian riding.

Sam was preceded in death by her parents, Adolph & Carol May.

She was married to James “Jim” Wagner who survives.  Also surviving are her son, Brett (Toni Zahorian) Kirton of Indiana; 3 brothers, Brian (Jill) May of Hornell, Chris (Carol) May of Elmira and John May of Horseheads; several nieces & nephews.

At Belinda’s request there will be no calling hours.  Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” to be held Saturday, October 19, 2024 from 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM at the The Starlite Room, 3018 Lake Road, Elmira, NY.

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

Sam’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Road, Painted Post, NY  14870.

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

Fremont, New York

Scott E. Volkmar – 56 – of 8687 Conderman Road, Fremont, NY died unexpectedly on Tuesday (October 8, 2024) at his home.

Born in Rochester, NY on November 23, 1967, he was the son of Edward Volkmar and Lorraine (Hinkley) Volkmar Wulforst and the step-son of Henry Wulforst.

In his early years, Scott lived in Rochester and had resided in the Fremont since 1972.  He attended Arkport Central School, later earning his General Education Development (GED) Degree.

Throughout the years, Scott was self-employed as a carpenter, working primarily in New York State and Pennsylvania.

He was a true outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting, fishing and snowmobiling.  Scott was an avid motorcyclist who loved riding his Harley Davidson Motorcycle and could usually be found wearing a Harley Motorcycle Jacket along with other Harley clothing.  He will be remembered as a “fun-loving” guy who enjoyed having a good time, staying busy and rooting for the New York Mets and the Buffalo Bills.

Scott’s true “Pride & Joy,” however, was his daughter, Shana, whom he loved and adored with all his heart and whose accomplishments he truly enjoyed sharing with his family & friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Edward Volkmar; his step-father, Henry Wulforst.

Surviving are his daughter, Shana Harrington of Whitesville, NY; his mother, Lorraine Wulforst of Fremont; his step-brother, Jay Evoy of  Florida; along with several aunts, uncles, cousins.

At Scott’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Scott’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the American Cancer Society, 13 Beech St., Johnson City, NY  13790.

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

Hornell, New York

Audrey Jeanne Bates (Davis), mother and resident of Hornell, NY, passed away on September 29, 2024 surrounded by family.

Born in Corning on February 5, 1971, she was the daughter of Lester & Audrey (Lewis) Davis, Sr.

Audrey was the proud mother of James, Leah, and Sarah. She loved animals, music, crafting, and spending time with friends. Her sisters will miss their girls’ days out shopping and enjoying good food. Crash, her friendly cat will miss causing trouble with her. Friends from Hornell will keep Audrey’s memory strong as they enjoy coffee and chatting at their favorite picnic table.

Audrey was preceded in death by her father, Lester Davis; her brother, Gregory Lester Davis; and step-father Sal Maldonado.

She is survived by mother, Audrey Maldonado, son James O’Brien (Danyelle); daughters, Leah Winnie (Michael), and Sarah Bates (Zach); grandchildren Jazmin Winnie, Colton Winnie, James O’Brien II, Monroe Wheaton, and Margaret O’Brien; brother Lester Davis (Jan); sisters, Robin Crittendon (Kirk), Angel Jessmer, and Melissa Van Brunt (Greg).

Audrey will continue to be loved by family, friends, and so many nieces, nephews, and cousins whose lives she blessed.

The family of Audrey Jeanne Bates will host a private “Celebration of Life” for family and close friends at the Hornell Moose Lodge on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 from 4:00 PM until 6:30 PM.

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

In lieu of flowers, please remember Audrey through memorial donations sent to Strong Memorial Hospital neurology or cardiology departments or Arbor Housing and Development CORE.

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

Canaseraga, New York

Theodore L. “Ted” Thompson – (87) – formerly of 1505 County Road 13C Canaseraga, NY (Town of Burns) died, peacefully Saturday afternoon(September 28, 2024) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility where he had resided for the past six years.

Born in Dansville, NY on November 22, 1936, he was the son of Lloyd & Edna (Baker) Thompson.

A lifelong resident of Canaseraga, Ted was a graduate of Canaseraga High School and a Veteran of the U.S Army.

He had been employed for over 33 years at Lucidol Corporation which later became Atochem of Geneseo, and happily retired, enjoying his land and tinkering on anything and everything!

Ted had a deep love of music and in his younger years played numerous instruments in his band, Mad Dog. In later years, he enjoyed playing the accordion and loved entertaining at local nursing homes & senior centers.  Never one for watching TV, he could always be found reading mysteries, and anything relating to WWII. Later in life he adopted his wife’s fondness for cats and offered a safe haven for many.

He was married on August 29, 1957, to the former Sandra Beach who died February 11, 2017.  In addition to his wife, Ted was predeceased by his son, Lee Thompson.

Ted is survived by his son, David Thompson of Hollis, ME; one daughter, Michele (Michael) Paige of Hollis, ME; two brothers, Larry (Karen) Thompson of Canaseraga and Kenneth (Susie) Thompson of Arkport; five nephews, Chad Hayes, Ian (Melissa) Thompson, Matthew Thompson, Daniel Thompson and Andrew Thompson; one niece, Michelle Hayes.

At Ted’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY 14843.

Ted’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to Cozy Cats & Kittens Sanctuary, C/O Elizabeth Oliver, 80 Seneca St, Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Marjorie Dieter Mastin Historical Society, P.O Box 93, Canaseraga, NY 14822.

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

Hornell, New York

Patricia A. “Pat” Emerson – (87) – of 1190 County Route 66, (The Woodlands) Hornell, died Friday afternoon (September 27, 2024) at her home, following a brief illness.

A native & life resident of Hornell, she was born April 12, 1937, and was the daughter of Carman & Frances (Beaird) Solo.

Pat was a graduate of St. Ann’s School and Hornell High School (class of 1955).  She later graduated from St. James School of Nursing.  She was employed as a registered nurse, working at St. James Mercy Hospital from 1957-1981 and at the Bath VA Medical Center from 1981 until her retirement in 2002.

She was a member of the Hillside Baptist Church and was also a member of the Hornell Alumni Association.  Pat served as president of the Board of Directors at The Woodlands Community from 2016-2020; vice-president from 2021-2022; and again as president from 2022 until the present time.

Pat was preceded in death by her daughter, Suzanne in 1961; her son, Mark in 2014; her sisters, Catherine Solo in 2010 and M. Elaine Grazioplene in 2022; her brother, Francis “Joe” Solo in 2020.

Surviving are 1 son, Michael Emerson of Hornell; 2 daughters, Karen (Donald) Palmesano of Texas and Mary Kathleen (Daniel) Smith of Rochester; 11 grandchildren; 19 great-grandchildren; nieces, nephews and many friends.

Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” to be held on Saturday, October 12, 2024 at 11:00 AM at the Hillside Baptist Church with Rev. Craig Brittingham officiating.  Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Fremont, NY.

Pat’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hillside Baptist Church, 805 County Route 66, Hornell, NY 14843 or to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY  14870.

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

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

Arkport, New York

Anna Lorraine Lawrence, precious baby girl of Blake & Crystal (Caldwell) Lawrence was born into the “Arms of Angels” on Wednesday, September 18, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.

Although Anna Lorraine never spent any time with us on earth, she was very much loved and touched many lives.  Our Little Angel will never be forgotten.

There to greet her at the Gates of Heaven were her paternal grandparents, Shelton & Barb Lawrence; and her maternal grandmother, Lorraine Caldwell.

Anna was loved and will be sadly missed by her parents, Blake & Crystal Lawrence of Arkport; her brother, Hiram Lawrence; paternal grandparents, John & Naomi Kinback of Garwood, NY and Joseph Lawrence of Arkport; maternal grandparents, Tami (James Mix) McCarthy of Hornell and Eugene McCarthy of Andover, NY; paternal great-grandparents, Harold & Lillian Kernan of Garwoods, NY; maternal great-grandfather, Robert (Roseanne Bixby) Caldwell of Wellsville, NY along with other family.

Blake & Crystal would like to share

The following poem:

There will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Anna’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Turner Syndrome Foundation, P.O. Box 726, Holmdel, NJ 07733.

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

Hornell, New York

Josephine M. “Jo” Carretto – (99) –  lifelong Hornell resident, died Thusday morning (September 19, 2024) at Updyke Willow Ridge Nursing Facility where she had resided for the past six months.

Born in Hornell on August 19, 1925, she was the daughter of Dominic & Rose (Girondo) Carretto.

Josephine attended Hornell High School and later graduated from the Federal Commercial School (Hornell Business School).  She continued her education by taking classes at Union College in Cranford, NJ.

She was employed for about 2 years at the former Koski’s Variety Store in Hornell.  In 1950 she began working as a clerk typist at Foster-Wheeler Corporation in Dansville.  Two years later she was promoted to stenographer.  In 1958 her career took a significant turn when she joined the Accounting Department as a Secretary and by 1967 she served as Plant Accountant.  In 1976 Jo was transferred to the corporate Headquarters in Livingston, NJ when she was promoted to the position of Corporate Payroll Manager.

Josephine is a former Director of the foster-Wheeler Boilermakers Credit Union at the Dansville plant and a member of the FWEC Equal Employment Opportunity Committee.  In 1978, Jo was honored as the recipient of the Tribute to Women & Industry Award.  She retired in 1982.

She was a communicant of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church where she had served as a member of the St. Ann’s Church Parish Council and for two years as parish council secretary.  Jo was also a former member and former president of the Ladies Auxiliary of the Sons of Italy and a former member of the Hornell Women of the Moose.  For five years she served as co-secretary of the Bishop’s Thanksgiving Appeal and for many years was a member of the National Audubon Society.  Jo was a member of both the Dansville 25 Year Club of Foster-Wheeler and the Livingston Office 25 Year Club of Foster- Wheeler.

Jo enjoyed traveling and especially enjoyed her 28 day motor trip through Italy which she took with her best friend, Dorothy “Dottie” Meehan.  She also loved reading mystery novels, rooting for the Buffalo Bills, New York Yankees and the Fighting Irish of Notre Dame football team.

Josephine was preceded in death her best friend of 70 years, Dorothy “Dottie” Meehan who died July 27, 2018; 4 brothers, Louis Carretto, Jim Carretto, Dominic Carretto & Frank Carretto; 3 sisters, Grace Armella, Ann Constantino & Sarah Fortuna.

Surviving are several nieces & nephews and several great-nieces & great-nephews.

At Josephine’s request there will be no calling hours.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday at 10:00 AM 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.

Memorial contributions in Josephine’s name may be made to St. Ann’s Academy, PO Box 446, Hornell, NY 14843.

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

Andover, NY / Avoca, NY

Alison “Jeannette” Zartman – 75 – of Lynch-Casey Road, Andover, NY, died Saturday afternoon (September 14, 2024) at the home of her son in Avoca, NY, following a long illness.

Born in Lewisburg, PA on August 11, 1949, she was the daughter of Elwood & Ruth (Klingman) Zartman.

Jeannette grew up in Lewisburg, PA and graduate from Lewisburg High School. She resided in Milton, PA for about 2 years and later lived in Dundee, NY for several years. She has resided in Andover for the past 10 years.

A “Domestic Housewife,” Jeannette was a talented artist who enjoyed creating beautiful scenery paintings. She also enjoyed crocheting and gardening.

Jeannette was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and was a member of Wellsville’s Kingdom Hall congregation where she taught many bible studies and enjoyed God’s gifts & creations.

She was preceded in death by her former husband, Robert W. Moll, Jr. who died in 2020; her brothers, Robert Zartman and Lee Zartman; sisters, Rosemary Zartman and Carol Zartman.

Surviving are her son, Richard (Iryna) Moll of Avoca; her daughter, Selenna (Kenny) Fiessler of Ocala, FL; her brother, Joseph Zartman of Mifflinburg, PA; her sister, Ruth Ann Hixon; her grandchildren, Kyle Fiessler, Joshua Moll, Rebekah Moll, Faith Moll, Shane Hight and Clayton Oakley; 2 great-grandchildren, Hunter & Harper.

Family & Friends of Alison “Jeannette” Zartman are welcome to attend a Memorial Talk on Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 115 Chamberlain St., Wellsville, NY.

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

Memorial contributions on Jeannette’s name may be made to the World Wide Work of Jehovah Witness at www.jw.org

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