Canisteo, New York

Paul N. Chace, Jr. – 63 – of State Route 36, Canisteo, NY died unexpectedly on Monday (February 12, 2024) at his home.

Born in Hornell on September 7, 1960, he was the son of Paul & Marion (Ross) Chace.

Paul grew up in Canisteo and was a graduate of Canisteo High School (class of 1979). He later attended Corning Community College where he took several Machinist Trade courses.

He was employed as a machinist for about 2 years at Foster-Wheeler Corporation in Dansville and later worked for Yule Tree Farms in Hornell planting & trimming Christmas Trees and Landscaping Trees. For about 2 years, Paul was employed at Transportation & Transit Associated (TTA) of Hornell and later worked at Philips Lighting in Bath retiring following over 20 years of service.

Paul enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid hunter (deer & small game) and fisherman (lake & pond). He also loved motorcycle riding and 4-wheeling.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Paul & Marion Chace; and his sister, Sharon Storm.

Surviving are his son, Nathaniel “Nate” Chace of Avoca; his brothers, Gary (Candie) Chace of Arkport and Jim Force of Michigan; his sister, Gail Stratton of Ashville, NC; 2 nephews, Brandon Chace of Corning and Derek Chace of Rochester; his niece, Angie (Michael) Chace Snyder of Ashville, NC; his half-brothers & half-sisters, Sheryl Bunch, Jane Stryker & Norman Force. Also surviving are his special friends, Bill Cole, Vern Hallett, David Prouty & David Antini.

The family of Paul N. Chace, Jr. will receive friends on Friday, (February 23, 2024) from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 5:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Final interment will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, NY.

Paul’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

Hornell, New York

Patricia A. “Pat” Gaffney – (89) – of Rochester, NY, formerly of 42 William St., Hornell, died Thursday evening (February 8, 2024) at St. Ann’s Community Nursing Facility in Webster, NY after living a full, loving, happy life.

Born in White Plains, NY on October 24, 1934, she was the daughter of James & Dorothy (Alley) Mullen.

Pat grew up in White Plains and was a graduate of White Plains High School (class of 1952). In 1954, she graduated from SUNY Cobleskill with an Associate’s Degree in Food Service Administration.

While attending Cobleskill she met the man she would spend the rest of her life training, the love of her life Bob Gaffney.

She briefly resided in Endicott, NY where she was employed as cafeteria manager for the Endicott school system. She resided in Apalachin, NY, Scotia, NY & Oneonta, NY. While living in Oneonta she served as a secretary for the Catskills Area Study Council. Settling in Hornell, NY in 1972 where she was an active member of the community. Pat, alongside Bob, were regular fixtures at Hornell sporting events cheering on their children, grandchildren and area youth. In later years she could be found in her corner seat of the “A” Gym. Pat and Bob enjoyed attending community and school functions such as HS Band and Choir concerts, HS Theatre productions, Hornell Wind Ensemble, and Hornell Rotary Plays. Pat found great joy visiting her out-of-town children and grandchildren.

She served as a volunteer for several local organizations, including St. James Mercy Hospital, the Hornell Salvation Army, where she was also a member of the Board of Directors, and was a Cinderella softball coach just to name a few.

Pat was an active member of the United Presbyterian Church, Hornell, NY, serving as a Deacon and singing in the choir. She was an Honorary Hornell Rotarian involved in many activities as well as a Paul Harris Fellow recipient. Pat enjoyed music throughout her lifetime, from playing the Bass Violin in high school, singing in choir and a quartet at Cobleskill, to being a member of Sweet Adeline’s and the Hornell Community Choir where she sang in many Christmas Cantatas. She was an avid gardener, which was evident to anyone who went past her home. “The Mom” was a fierce animal lover and a wonderful cook and baker. She also enjoyed reading, sewing, painting, crafting and knitting. She was a world traveler, Bob said “he dragged her all over the world!” But by far her favorite time was spent with her family.

She was preceded in death by her parents James & Dorothy (Alley) Mullen, her son Kevin Gaffney and brother-in-law James Finch.

Pat was married on July 28, 1956 to Robert “Bob” Gaffney who survives. Also surviving are daughters, Kathleen (Michael) McDaniels of Machias, NY and Sharon (John) Tallman of Lynchburg , VA; sons, Thomas (Kathleen) Gaffney of Brockport, NY and Sëan (Michele) Gaffney of Hornell; 1 sister, Jean Finch of Cummings, GA; 16 grandchildren, Megan McDaniels, Brendan McDaniels, Brianne (Cooper) White, Nicholas (Lindsay) Tallman, Kara (Nathan) Ozmint, Allison (Jacob) Woodrum, Rebecca (Britton) Lee, Robert Gaffney, James Gaffney, Elizabeth (Tre) Jones, Katie Gaffney, Connor Gaffney, Cassandra Gaffney, Ryan (Emily) Gaffney, Hope Gaffney and Lily Gaffney; 8 great-grandchildren, several nieces & nephews, including Sally (Ronald) Campbell and Douglas (Sandra) Finch as well as several cousins and friends.

The family of Patricia A. “Pat” Gaffney will receive friends on Friday, February 16th from 3:00 PM until 5:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held on February 17th at 10:00 AM at the United Presbyterian Church, 150 Main St., Hornell, NY with Rev. David Kilgore officiating. Final interment will be in Hornell-Rural Cemetery.

Pat’s family suggests that memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell YMCA, 12 Center St., Hornell, NY 14843 or the Hornell United Presbyterian Church, 150 Main St., Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home

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

Hornell, NY

James McHale, age 93, a resident of Spinnlers Point in Tafton, PA since 1992 and formerly of Morrisville, PA, died Saturday, January 27, 2024.

Mr. McHale was born September 2, 1930, in Hornell, New York and was the son of the late Michael and Twilla McHale. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his son, Tim and son-in-law, Ron Smith.

James was a shoe repairman and a member of the Elks and enjoyed golfing and shooting pool.

He is survived by his wife of 74 years: Lucille (Rouscher) McHale; five daughters: Susan and husband, Russell DiRe of Greentown, PA, Stephanie Smith of Trevose, PA, Barbara and husband, Steve Mott of Morrisville, PA, Maureen McHale of Tafton, PA and Kathleen Moss of Tafton, PA, one son, Michael and wife, Nancy McHale of Southampton, NJ, nine grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren.

Private services will be held at the request of the family.

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

To leave an online condolence visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Hornell, New York

Brigid A. Martusewicz – 64 – of 456 Bennett Parkway, Hornell, died unexpectedly Friday afternoon (January 26, 2024) at her home.

Born in Hornell on December 30, 1959, she was the daughter of Mark & Eleanor (Gould) O’Neil.

As a young child, Brigid resided in Buffalo for several years and later grew up in Geneseo, NY. She was a graduate of Geneseo High School (class of 1977) and received her Associate’s Degree in Nursing from Alfred State College (SUNY Alfred).

For several years, Brigid was employed as a Licensed Registered Nurse at Strong Memorial Hospital. She has lived in the Hornell area for the past 25 years.

While living in Geneseo, she was a member of St. Mary’s Church and more recently attended St. Ann’s Church of Hornell.

Brigid had a deep affection of all animals and throughout the years had many well loved dogs & cats. However, her true passion was for horses and in years past owned several race horses including Anniron, that is in the Horse Racing Hall of Fame and was named “New York State Filly of the Year.” While living in Geneseo, she actually had her own racetrack built on her property. An accomplished horse-back rider, Brigid enjoyed equine hunting and jumping and had been a member of the Genesee Valley Hunting Club.

An avid reader, Brigid loved reading medical journals, especially articles about nursing. She was also an avid fan of J.R. Tolkien and enjoyed reading and watching the The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings Trilogy.

Most recently Brigid embraced her role as a doting grandmother. Her granddaughters Annabelle and Elliana truly loved and will miss their “Grammy Bridgy.”

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mark & Eleanor O’Neil.

Surviving are her son, Christopher (Jen) Martusewicz of Canandaigua; her daughter, Caitlin (Silverio Morales) Martusewicz of Brooklyn, NY; her siblings, Beth “Honey” (Craig) Ohlhorst of Newport News, VA, Margaret “Sissy” (Dan) Mahoney of Hornell; Mark “Bucky” (Ann) O’Neil of Hilton Head Island, SC, Patty (Roger) Doddington of England, Timothy (Linda) O’Neil of Canandaigua, Kathryn “Kitty” (Eric) Hepler of Richmond, VA and Brian (Julie) O’Neil of Rochester; her former husband, Alec Martusewicz; many nieces & nephews.

Please save the date for a “Celebration of Life” which will be held on the afternoon of July 19th in Geneseo, NY at a location to be announced.

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

In keeping of her love of animals, Brigid’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, we encourage you to visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

Hornell, New York

Anthony L. “Tony” Caruso – 73 – of 101 Buffalo St., Hornell, died Tuesday afternoon (January 23, 2024) at the Steuben Center in Bath, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on January 22, 1951, he was the son of Angelo Caruso & Elinor (Burr) Caruso.

Tony grew up in Hornell and attended St. Ann School and later graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1970) and was a member of the HHS Red Raider Football Team. He later attended Hudson Valley Community College where he was a member of their football team.

He was employed for several years as a bartender / bouncer at Down by the Station, a popular Pizza Pub in Hornell. While working at “The Station,” Tony was not only well liked as a bartender but extremely well respected as a bouncer. Everyone knew not to start any trouble while Tony was on duty!!!

A mason by trade, Tony owned & operated Caruso’s roofing and was experienced in every aspect of the construction business. Throughout the years worked for several area construction companies and was proud to have obtained his Commercial Driver’s License (CDL). He was later employed by the City of Hornell working for nearly 20 years. He was a member of the Bricklayers Union in Rochester.

Tony was a gentle giant with a heart as big as he was. Throughout his life he was generous and helped others, often doing so in a quiet manner, never wanting recognition for his good deeds.

Tony had a deep love and connection to nature and New York State. He most enjoyed taking nature walks with his grandson and spending time at his Camp on Tobes Hill. “It’s God’s Country” as he would often say. Being a grandfather was the best part of his life. He often enjoyed a country drive taking in all the beauty of Western New York.

He was a former member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a former communicant of St. Ann’s Church.

Tony was preceded in death by his parents, Angelo & Elinor; his step-mother, Ethel Caruso; his brothers, Larry Caruso, Joe Caruso & Angelo Caruso; his nephew, Jimmy Hess; and his “sister,” Pat Markel.

He will be greatly missed by his surviving daughters, Andrea Caruso of Carmel, CA and Julee (Mike) Kilsdonk of Hornell; his grandsons, Jericho Govea Caruso, Ethan Kilsdonk & Emmet Kilsdonk. Tony was also blessed with a big Italian Family who loved him that include Sandra Donlon, Nancy Beach, Angela Caruso, Michael Caruso, Richie Caruso, Vicky Southward, Kathy Wilbur, Linda Salyerds and Jeff Teeter along with several nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews and cousins.

At Tony’s request there will be no calling hours. A Memorial Mass will be held on Friday, April 12, 2024 at 10:00 AM St. Ann’s Church, Hornell, NY. Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

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

Tony’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Sierra Club by visiting www.sierraclub.org.

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

Hornell, NY / Arkport, NY

Barbara Elizabeth “Aunt Barb” Manhart – (82) – of 8935 County Road #52 (Burns Road), Arkport, NY died early Thursday morning (January 18, 2024) at Noyes Memorial Hospital in Dansville, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on October 30, 1941, she was the daughter of Milo & Marjorie (DeGroff) Manhart, Sr.

Barb grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School and later served as a member of the US Navel Reserves, receiving her honorable discharge on September 1, 1967.

An active member of The Salvation Army, she interned at the School for Officers Training in New York City in 1963. She was commissioned a Lieutenant in 1965 and held appointments in Philadelphia and Staten Island where she was promoted to Captain. She also held appointments in New York City and Buffalo, NY.

Upon her return to Hornell in 1972, she held the position of Senior Citizens Coordinator for the City of Hornell and Director of Community Organization for the Hornell Area for SCEOP.

Moving to Shreveport, LA in 1982, Barb began working at Barksdale Air Force Base in 1983 where she received numerous awards. She was assigned to the 2nd Medical Group where she served until May, 2001. She was then assigned to the 2nd Contracting Office until her retirement in July, 2006. Following her retirement, she moved back to the Hornell area that she loved so much.

Barb loved to travel and, throughout her lifetime visited every state in the union, with the exception of Alaska. She has also visited 5 providences in Canada along with 5 countries in Europe (England, France, Germany, Switzerland & Belgium).

She was member of Hornell United Methodist Church and also a member of the Hornell Alumni Association. Barb also served on the Advisory Board of the Town of Burns.

In addition to her parents, Milo & Marjorie, Barb was preceded in death by 3 brothers, Raymond Manhart, Robert Manhart and Milo Manhart JR; 2 sisters, Delores Manhart Wing and Ruth Hill; along with many other family members.

Surviving are numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, great-great nieces and great-great nephews.

The family of Barbara “Aunt Barb” Manhart will receive friends on Thursday from 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM at the Hornell United Methodist Church, 7528 North Main St. Ext., Hornell, NY. Funeral & committal will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 12:00 (Noon) with Pastor Lenny Fuller and Rev. Gary Miles officiating. Burial will be in Heritage Hill Cemetery, Arkport, NY.

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

Barb’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Women’s Auxellary Canaseraga American Legion, 16 Main St., Canaseraga, NY 14822 or to the Hornell United Methodist Church, 7528 North Main St. Ext., Hornell, NY 14843.

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

Hornell, New York

Roberta A. “Bobbi” Ward – 72 – of 7555 Airport Road, Hornell (Town of Hornellsville) died unexpectedly on Wednesday (January 10, 2024) at her home.

Born in Hornell on February 2, 1951, she was the daughter of Robert & Jeanne (Geary) Ward.

Bobbi grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1969). Following high school graduation, she briefly resided in New York City where she worked as a comic artist for a local newspaper.

For a time, she traveled throughout the United States and Canada, eventually making her way to the Pacific Northwest settling in Eugene, OR where she resided for several years. While living in Oregon, Bobbi attended Oregon State University where she majored in Accounting. She later lived in Sandpoint, ID where she worked as a desk clerk / accountant for a local trucking company.

In 1993 Bobbi moved back to the Hornell area and in 1994 began working as a Student Aid Representative for Alfred University, a position that she held for over 15 years. After “retiring” from Alfred University, she was employed as a part-time cashier for Wegman’s Grocery in Hornell.

Bobbi was a former member of United Presbyterian Church of Hornell. She was an accomplished artist who enjoyed charcoal pencil drawings, oil pastels and chalk pastels. Bobbi also loved creating beautiful stained glass window ornaments and stained glass lamps. More recently, Bobbi enjoyed knitting and loved making beautiful hats, scarves, headbands and baby blankets that she would give to family, friends, and donate to the local Red Cross. Of course she remained a fan of the Oregon State University Ducks Football Team!

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her infant brother, James J. Ward who died in 1957; and her former husband, Barry Wengren who died in 2022.
Surviving are 2 sons, Kyle (Chantl Moore) Wengren of Portland, OR and Erik (Lisa Kimball) Wengren of Canisteo; her twin sister, Bonnie (David Blanding) Salter of Canandaigua, NY; her granddaughter, Robin Boyd; along with 2 nieces, Marianne Dineen and Melissa McCarthy.

The family of Roberta A. “Bobbi” Ward will receive friends on Friday (January 19, 2024) from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date at a time & place to be announced.
Bobbi’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

Alpharetta, GA / Hornell, NY

Shawn M. Angell – 46 – of Alpharetta, GA, formerly of Hornell died Thursday (November 23, 2023) at the Wellstar North Fulton Hospital, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on April 29, 1977, he was the son of Richard “Rick” & Debra “Debi” (Towner) Angell.

Shawn grew up in Hornell and attended Hornell High School until transferring to Haverling High School in Bath during his sophomore year. While in high school (both Hornell and Bath) he excelled in sports, especially football, swimming & baseball. He set several high school swimming records while swimming with the Haverling Rams and was elected into the Haverling Rams High School Hall of Fame.

Following high school, Shawn earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from the Coastal Carolina University in Myrtle Beach SC. He served his internship and was employed for several years at Disney World in Orlando, FL.

Moving to Georgia over 20 years ago, Shawn resided in the Roswell / Alpharetta areas and served as Regional Sales Manager for Benco Dental Supply Company.

As an avid sports fan and loving father & family man, Shawn enjoyed coaching his children in youth football, youth softball and youth baseball. He loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills (NFL) and the Atlanta Braves (MLB) and also enjoyed “hoisting a few” with his many friends.

Shawn loved to travel — especially to New York City and to Disney World. His favorite time of the year was the Christmas Season and he would spend countless hours baking homemade Christmas Cookies using a old family recipe.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Debra “Debi” Angell (died September 14, 2020); his paternal grandparents, DeForest & Catherine Angell; maternal grandmother, Mary Towner.

Surviving are his daughter, Isabella “Bella” Angell; his son, Watson “Watts” Angell; his father, Richard “Rick” Angell of Hornell; his sister, Kristie (Brian) Babcock of Hornell; his maternal grandfather, Vernon “Red” Towner of Avoca; 2 nephews, hunter Babcock and Christian Babcock; along with several aunts, uncles & cousins.

The family of Shawn M. Angell will receive friends on Saturday, January 13, 2024 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 Rev. Tyrone Hall officiating.

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

Shawn’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843.

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

Hornell, New York

James C. Tigner – 56 – of 34 ½ Willow Place, Hornell, died Thursday (January 4, 2024) at his home, following a long illness.

Born in Hornell on July 7, 1967, he was the son of Curtis Tigner & Rose Marie Davis.

James was a lifelong resident of Hornell and attended Hornell High School. Throughout the years he had been employed a several area businesses including Hoeffner Farm, General Marble of Hornell and Air-flo of Prattsburgh.

In his younger years, James enjoyed lifting weights and working out. More recently he enjoyed collecting scrap metal and spending time watching his favorite shows on TV.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Curtis & Rose Marie Davis.

Surviving are 2 brothers, Edward “Moose” Davis of Bath and Fredrick “Fred” Tigner of Hornell; his sister, Bernice Tigner of Hornell; several nieces & nephews.

At James’ request there will be no calling hours. Family & friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held on Friday (January 12th, 2024) at 1:00 PM at the Rehoboth Deliverance Ministries, 112 East Ave., Hornell, NY.

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

James’ family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to Catholic Charities, 23 Liberty St., Bath, NY 14810.

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

Wellsville, NY / Hornell, NY

Jeffrey J. “Jeff” Hawley was called home to Heaven on December 30, 2023. He was 64 years old and resided at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility for 5 month due to his health.

Born in Wellsville, NY on August 9, 1959, he is the son of Edward & Judith “Judy” (Stoehr) Hawley and lived on the family farm on Niles Hill Road for several years.

Jeffrey grew up in Rushford, NY and attended the former Rushford Central School. Throughout the years he lived in several locations including Pennsylvania, Attica, NY and Allegany, NY. More recently he lived at 152 Pine St., Wellsville, NY and was a member of the Crosstown Alliance Church of Wellsville. He had a deep love for his Lord and Savior!

He worked on the Hawley Family Farm in Rushford and also worked on several area farms. Jeffrey enjoyed the outdoors and loved hunting (deer & small game) and fishing. He also had a deep affection for animals and was truly fond of his cat, “Miss Kitty.” He had a very kind heart, loved people and will be deeply missed, especially by his girlfriend of the past two years, Mary Ellen.

Jeff was married to the former Sandra “Sandy” Jenison who died about 10 years ago. He was also preceded in death by his parents, Edward & Judy Hawley.

Surviving are his son, Jeffrey Hawley JR; 5 brothers, Clyde Hawley of Waterbury, CT, Warren Hawley of Rushford, NY, Dean (Pam) Hawley of Greenback, TN, Wayne (Candy) Hawley of Rushford, NY and Stephen (Jennifer) Hawley of Morganton, NC; 1 sister, Donna Hawley of Belfast, NY; several grandchildren, nieces & nephews.

At the family’s request there will be no calling hours. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a later date. Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Jeff’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Crosstown Alliance Church, 450 North Highland Ave., Wellsville, NY 14895.

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