Becker, MN / Hornell, NY

Kevin M. Gaffney, 64, of Becker, Minnesota passed away Thursday afternoon (November 2, 2023) following a brief illness.

Born in Niskayuna, NY on October 7, 1959, he was the son of Robert and Patricia (Mullen) Gaffney.

Kevin spent the majority of his childhood in Oneonta NY before moving to Hornell NY in 1972. He was a graduate of Hornell High School (Class of 1977). Kevin then went on to graduate from SUNY Fredonia (Class of 1981). He was a competitive athlete playing soccer, basketball and track & field where he was a long, triple and high jumper at HHS. Kevin continued his love of track and field at SUNY Fredonia.

After graduating college, Kevin started his long career in the business world beginning in Sales, then starting his own business, and moving onto the role of Facilities Director for several different school districts, colleges and universities.

In the words of his father, “he marched to his own drummer.” Kevin was bigger than life with the tall tales to match. He was quick with a joke, laugh or a touch of kindness for everyone. He never lost his love of sports, including being a long suffering Minnesota Vikings fan. He loved his parents, siblings, children and his Minnesota family very much.

In addition to his parents, Kevin is survived by his three children, Kaitlin, Aubrey and Cassie Gaffney; siblings Kathleen (Michael) McDaniels, Thomas (Kathy) Gaffney, Sharon (John) Tallman, Sean (Michele) Gaffney; 13 nieces and nephews; the love of his life Barb Knutson and her children Chantel, Cassie, & Chrissie; grandchildren Courtney, Cody and Cheyenne; and many friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, November 10, 2023 at The Main Place, 251 Main Street, Hornell NY from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Please join the family as we share our memories of Kevin.

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

Kevin’s family requests that memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, PO Box 135, Hornell NY 14843.

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

Hornell, New York

Dianna D. “Diny” Bennett – 60 – of 40 Main St., Hornell, died Sunday morning (November 5, 2023) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Miami Dade, FL on December 15, 1962, she was the daughter of Clarence & Katherine (Chapman) Bliven.

Diny attended Scio High School and, throughout the years resided in several locations including Canisteo, Bradford, PA, Brownwood, TX, High Point, NC, Hornell and Port Orange, FL, moving back to the Hornell area in 2020.

She had been employed as a kitchen helper, food runner, bartender and cashier. She also worked for Zippo Lighter Company (Bradford, PA), Time Warner/Adelphia Cable (Coudersport, PA) 7-Eleven (Almond).

Dianna loved to crochet blankets and scarves for all of her kids and grandkids. Christmas was a special holiday and she would celebrate it as often as possible. Diny was an avid reader and sometimes would read up to 3 books a week. In her younger years, Dianna had a passion for dancing and music. She looked forward to bowling on Wednesday afternoons with the girls on the Billy Schu’s bowling team.

In addition to her parents, Dianna was preceded in death by her brother, Mitch Chapman.

Surviving are 2 sons, Craig (Lisa) Greene of Canisteo and Daniel Greene of Hornell; 1 daughter, Tracey (Hoss Coates) Greene of Hornell; the father of her children, Steven Greene; 1 brother, Bob Chapman of Williamsport, Pa; 6 grandchildren, Tegan Greene, Phoenix Pierce, Craig Greene, Jr., Khloe Greene, Ryker Greene and Colton Coates; along with several nieces & nephews.

Diny’s family would like express their deepest gratitude and appreciation to all of her doctors, nurses, hospice caregivers and many friends that helped her and took such great care of her throughout her long illness.

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

Family & friends are invited to attend a “Celebration of Life” on Tuesday, December 12, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 9:00 PM at the Hornell VFW on Canisteo St., Hornell, NY. All are welcome to come and share stories of Dianna’s life.

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

Dianna’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.

Hornell, New York

Karen H. Gemmell – 74 – of 7115 North Main St. Ext., Hornell, died early Friday morning (November 3, 2023) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on June 14, 1949, she was the daughter of Frank & Ethel (Stone) Wyant.

Karen grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1967). She had been employed briefly as a secretary at the former Goodyear Tire in Hornell and as a saleslady at JC Penny Store in Hornell and later as a secretary at Beneficial Finance in Hornell. For about 6 years, Karen worked in the assessor’s office at the Hornell City Building and eventually moved down stairs and served as payroll clerk for the City of Hornell. She retired following 23 years of service to the Hornell Community.

In her younger years, Karen was a member of the Westminster Presbyterian Church on Washington St., Hornell. She was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading mystery novels and romance novels. She also loved spending time in the kitchen cooking & baking and experimenting with new recipes.

Karen was most happy simply being with her entire family. Throughout the years, she absolutely loved attending her children & grandchildren’s sporting events such as baseball, football and especially wrestling. Time spent with her family was precious and she tried to never miss a game or sporting event. She was their #1 Fan.

In addition to her parents, Karen was preceded in death by her brother, Frank Wyant; her sister, Linda VanSicle; her granddaughter, Brittini Gemmell.

She was married on September 2, 1967 to John Gemmell who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons, Kevin (Carol) Gemmell of Knoxville, PA and John (Kristi) Gemmell of Arkport; 4 grandsons, Ryan, Aidan,
Cael and Evan; along with 4 great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.

The family of Karen H. Gemmell will receive friends on Friday, November 17, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 6:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 6:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.

Karen’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. 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

Concetta “Tina” Pellone is blessed to be reunited with her husband, Vinny, and friends as she recently entered Heaven on November 4, 2023.

Tina lived a long and productive life. She was born in Naples Italy in 1930 as one of four children. At a young age she lost her younger brother and sister during World War II. Shortly after she met the man of her dreams, Vincent Pellone, while he was serving for the US army as a soldier in the Korean War and visiting his family in Naples. Like a Hollywood movie, they married in Naples and moved to the United States where they lived in the Little Italy neighborhood of New York City. Their dreams continued to come true as they were blessed with the birth of their daughter, Anna Pellone (later to become Anna Garguilo). They lived the American dream, working hard, and eventually purchasing a house in Brooklyn on Ocean Parkway.

Well known for her ability as a seamstress, Tina worked as a dressmaker in Lou’s shop in Brooklyn, making wedding gowns as well as long-time friends. But maybe more notable than her dress making skills was her cooking skills. She exemplified the rich Italian cooking the New York area for which she is now well known. Tina often hosted huge family dinners using a wide variety of fancy China and multiple courses. With her husband sitting at the head of the table, they made many happy memories.

While America was their home, they always considered themselves Italian and would take many vacations around the world, especially back to Naples to visit extended family. Her parents lived to be 99 years old and her sister Mille is still alive and now 86 surrounded by her three children and an extended Italian family. Tina & Mille continued to speak on the phone whenever they could, bragging about their children and grandchildren like giddy sisters in Italian.

Tina had two absolute favorites in her life. The first was Sunday dinner where she would get to cook and show her deep love for her family through Italian dishes. This was a chance to shower her two grandchildren, Michael and Vincent, with warm unconditional love. She would never miss any of their school awards or sporting events if she could help it. Tina took any opportunity to talk with people about her grandchildren. She was deeply proud of ALL their achievements, including graduation from college.

Her second favorite thing in life was the occasional getaway to the casino, where she came alive to the lights and sounds of the slot machines. She could be found playing the penny slots with fixed interest and passion. Tina would remark on the “only if” scenarios of potential jackpots to the smiles and laughter of anyone that would listen.

Later in life, her grandchild Michael was blessed with two children, Aurora and Celeste, which gave “Nona” a chance to shower them with love that only an Italian great-grandmother can achieve. The two little girls loved eating pancakes at Nona’s house and playing “flower shop” with the multitudes of silk flowers scattered around her house. Each visit was counted down with great expectation.

Tina will always be remembered for her thick Italian accent, that although she lived in the USA for many decades, was like visiting Italy itself when you spoke with her and her deep sweet kindness to everyone. She would always put herself last to make sure everyone else was happy and well fed. Frequently smiling and asking if you wanted more food and slowly pushing the bowls closer to you. Tina continued to share her passion for food outside of the house as she worked in the cafeteria of the North Hornell Elementary School making sure each young person had enough food and love in their lives.

Many special occasions in and around town have been accented by her seamstress abilities. Tina was well known for her alterations for many local people, including prom gowns. She enjoyed chatting with all her customers, but Jimmy Dagon was her favorite customer and a friend to the end.

Many thanks to all the doctors, nurses and aides who took care of Tina over the years. A special thank you Carefirst Hospice and the Hornell City Ambulance for the many times they had to help her.

Through many years, she continued to live alone, but received constant care and attention from her daughter, Anna and Son-in-law Michael, who lived two houses away. Always attentive to her wants and needs they continued to provide family love. She eagerly awaited the periodic calls from her grandchildren and great grandchildren. The years were accented by holiday visits and friendly smiles from visitors. Thank you to all that visited and greeted her around town.

In addition to her parents, Tina was preceded in death by her husband, Vincent “Vinny” Pellone; along with her brother & sister.

Surviving are her daughter, Anna (Michael) Garguilo; 2 grandsons, Vincent (Leanne Rahner) Garguilo of Forest Hills, NY and Michael (Kristin) Garguilo of Ridgefield, CT; her great-granddaughters, Aurora and Celeste; her sister, Mille; along with several nieces & nephews.

At Tina’s request there will be no calling hours. A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 AM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. She will be laid to rest next to her husband, Vinny, at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Rochester, NY.

Tina’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org) or to Care first Hospice, 3805 Meads Creek Rd., Painted Post, NY 14870 (carefirstny.org).

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

Hornell, NY

Lisa M. (Fucci) Smith – 51 – of 7391 Russell Road, Hornell, died Monday, October 23, 2023 surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with cancer.

Born in Hornell on October 23, 1972, she was the daughter of Michael & Linda (LaVerde) Fucci.

A lifelong Hornell resident, Lisa graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1990). Having a love of flowers, she earned a degree in Horticulture from Alfred State College and was involved in horticulture throughout her adult life. She also earned a degree in Business & Marketing.

She enjoyed making flower arrangements for outdoor landscapes as well as for weddings, funerals, proms and other events. For a time, Lisa owned and operated The Petal Pusher and was also employed at Swackhamer’s Florist in Hornell and Way to Grow Greenhouse in Alfred Station. Lisa was employed by the City of Hornell as secretary in the Code Enforcement office before dedicating her time as a stay-at-home mom and homemaker. While tending to her family at home, she pursued a career in medical transcription. When her son, Blake, started kindergarten, Lisa began working in the office at North Hornell School. Most recently, she was employed as a secretary at the Department of Transportation in Hornell.

Lisa was a parishioner of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a lifelong communicant of St. Ann’s Church.

Having a love for decorating and flowers, Lisa’s favorite season was fall, and her favorite holidays were Thanksgiving and Christmas. Family was the absolute most important thing in her life, and she loved hosting large family gatherings and celebrations. She was a wonderful wife, mother, & homemaker who always made gatherings special and full of love. Lisa was a fantastic cook, often creating big Italian meals from scratch, replicating many of her Grandma Fucci’s and her mom’s delicious recipes – everything from homemade pasta, meatballs, and sauce, to pizza, breads, and her dad’s chicken wings. She was loved by all and will be dearly missed by her family and many friends.

Lisa was married on November 6, 2004 to Aaron Smith who survives. Also surviving are her son, Blake of Hornell; her mother, Linda Fucci of Hornell; brother, Tony (Lisa Perry-Sagona) Fucci of Charlotte, NC; mother- and father-in-law, Bonnie & Lowell Smith of Hornell; sisters-in-law, Alise Smith, Heather (Chris) Passero, and Lindsey (Dave) Bailey all of Hornell; nieces & nephews, Gabriella & Marrionna Passero, Dominic & Olivia Fucci, and Kayla & Morgan Sagona; aunts & uncles, Lenny (Diane) Fucci of Hornell, Amelia “Mimi” Dempsey of Buffalo, Pam Harwood, Shawn LaVerde, & Joanne LaVerde all of Hornell, Mike (Kim) LaVerde of Connecticut, and Arlette Lecceardone of Georgia; many special cousins, and canine companion, Bruiser.

She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Fucci who died February 8, 2012; grandparents, Mary & Anthony Fucci and Naomi LaVerde; aunts, Clara Fucci, Maria Ormsby, & Marjorie (Jim) Blowers; uncles, Larry Dempsey, Ron LaVerde, Don LaVerde, Robert “Bobby” LaVerde, & Jim LaVerde; cousins, Jimmy LaVerde & Michael Dempsey; her beloved dogs, Harley, Bailey, & Oakley.

To honor Lisa’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. Family and Friends are invited to a Memorial Mass on Wednesday, November 1st at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with Father Stan Kacprzak officiating. Final interment will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Funeral Arrangements are in care of Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church Street, Hornell, NY.

Lisa’s family requests that, in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to Sully and the Ladies in Pink Foundation, 9605 Nunda Dalton Road, Dalton, NY 14836 or by visiting https://sullyandtheladiesinpink.com/contact-us.

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

Canandaigua, New York

Cynthia Marie “Cindy” Prentice – 70 – of Parish St., Canandaigua, NY died Tuesday morning (October 24, 2023) shortly after being transported to FF Thompson Hospital from home.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell NY.

Canisteo, New York

John F. Gore – (95) – of 24 Union St., Canisteo, died early Monday morning (October 23, 2023) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility, following a long illness.

Born in Buffalo, NY on September 21, 1928, he was the son of Michael & Nora (Sullivan) Gore.

John grew up in Buffalo and was a graduate of Sacred Heart Elementary School (class of 1942). He later graduated from East High School in Buffalo (class of 1946).

Following high school graduation, John enlisted in the United States Army, and served his country from 1946 – 1948 at the end of WWII earning the Victory Medal.

After being honorably discharged from the Army, John enrolled at the University of Buffalo earning his Bachelor’s Degree in Geography and becoming a school teacher. While teaching in various public schools in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls area, he earned his master’s degree in education at the University of Buffalo. During the summer months of the early 1960s, he took courses at Harvard University and worked part time in the lab of psychologist B.F. Skinner.

Throughout the years, John taught History and Social Studies at several Buffalo Area Schools and also taught for a year in Ripley, NY. In 1964 he began working for the Steuben-Allegany BOCES as a Driver’s Education instructor, a position that he held until his retirement in 1984. In 1986, John and Jeanne moved from Canisteo, where they had lived since 1970, to sunny Florida. From 1986 – 2007 he and his wife, Jeanne, resided in Port St. Lucie, FL, but for about 12 years he would return to New York State where he taught summer school classes in driver’s education in Allegany County schools. They returned to Canisteo in 2007.

John was a spiritual man who was known to attend both St. Ann’s Church in Hornell and Christ Episcopal Church in Hornell and had many friends in both churches. He had been a member of the Hornell Elks Lodge, Hornell Moose Lodge, Hornell Association, the Canisteo American Legion, and the Kanestio Historical Society. He was a friendly fellow whose dry sense of humor that had a way of sneaking up on others.

A true “history buff,” John loved reading and learning about WWI and WWII, the horrors of the Holocaust, and the Cold War era. He enjoyed collecting 78 RPM Records from the early 1900s and vintage radios and wind up-phonographs. He was an avid coin collector who enjoyed listening to early 20th century vocalists such as Henry Burr, John McCormick, and Al Jolson. He belonged to the Al Jolson Society, a type of fan club whose members work to preserve Jolson’s music legacy for these times. John also loved watching classic movies including silent movies and the early ‘Talkies.”

Having grown up during the great depression, John had a keen sense of what people of that era endured and enjoyed reading and studying about those most difficult times. He wrote his own memoirs about his experiences entitled “The Birds Fly Upside Down” and was a contributor to the book “Frozen Laundry & Depression Soup,” a compilation of ordinary people’s accounts of the great depression.

John was preceded in death by his sister, Maureen Angus; and four brothers, Kerry Gore, Daniel Gore, Kevin gore and Gerald Gore.

He was married on April 13, 1968, to the former Jeanne Rifenburg, who survives. Also surviving are his brother, Robert Gore of Amherst, NY, along with many beloved nieces and nephews.

At John’s request there will be no calling hours. Family & friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 1:00 PM at the Hornell Elks Lodge, Broadway Mall, Hornell, NY. A “Celebration of Life” will follow downstairs in the Elks Lounge.

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

John’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to: Hornell Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Road, Hornell, NY 14843 OR Roswell Comprehensive Cancer Treatment Center, 665 Elm Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

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

Arkport, New York

Sharon C. Flickner – 80 – of 7940 State Route 36, Arkport, died unexpectedly Sunday morning (October 22, 2023) at her home.

Born in Dansville, NY on September 30, 1943, she was the daughter of Stephen & Geraldine Cowley.

Sharon grew up in Dansville and was a graduate of Dansville High School (class of 1961). She has resided in the Dansville – Arkport area for most of her adult life.

Throughout the years, Sharon had been employed as a waitress at several restaurants and as a cashier for several grocery stores. She was a NASCAR fan whose favorite drivers were Dale Earnhardt and Dale Earnhardt JR. she also enjoyed watching TV(especially soap operas) and listening to country music.

In addition to her parents, Sharon was preceded in death by her brother, Stephen Cowley.

Surviving are 3 daughters, Rebecca (Ed) Skelly of Dunkirk, NY, Regina Flickner of Kentucky and Marlena (Jubert) Lloyd of Albion, NY; her son, Jon Flickner of Arkport; her sister, Barbara Bliemeister of Batavia; many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

At Sharon’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.

Memorial contributions in her 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.

Almond, New York

Daniel E. “Boone” McMahon – 82 – of Karr Valley Road, Almond, died Friday morning (October 20, 2023) at his home, following a long illness.

Born in Pampa, TX on November 11, 1940, he was the son of Arthur & Genevieve (George) McMahon.

A resident of the Karr Valley Road, Almond, since the age of four, Boone was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1960). From a young age he was active on the family dairy farm, working alongside his father. Following high school graduation, Boone was employed briefly at Snyder Electric in Almond and had also worked for several years at Bertch’s Slaughter House and later Worthington Pump in Wellsville, NY.

He was married on July 30, 1966 to the former Arlene Barron who survives. In 1967, Boone & Arlene purchased the family farm which they operated for over 40 years. After “retirement” Boone remained active in the operation of the family farm. He also worked at the Alfred State College Farm and the Bainbridge Family Farm in West Almond.

Dan was a communicant of St. Brendan’s Church in Almond where he served as an altar boy in his youth and continued attending throughout his life.

Boone enjoyed the outdoors and hunting, but he especially loved camping. He and Arlene started their life together by spending their honeymoon camping. They continued the tradition with their family, spending vacations camping in the Adirondacks. A highlight of their marriage was the fulfillment of their dream to go to Alaska, a surprise gift from their loving family and friends for their 40th wedding anniversary. This past year, due to Dan’s health problems, the annual camping trip was moved to the family farm so the tradition could continue with Boone in attendance. His greatest joy, however, was simply being with and loving his family — especially his grandchildren & great-grandchildren whom he adored!!

In addition to his parents, Boone was preceded in death by his brother, Michael McMahon; and his infant sister, Marie McMahon.

In addition to his wife, Arlene, survivors include 3 daughters, Bonnie (Rick) Wilkins of Almond, Diane (Troy) Allen of Pine Tops, NC and Jennifer (Richard) Warren of Almond; 2 sons, Daniel (Maria) McMahon of Almond and Joseph (Jennifer) McMahon of Almond; 1 sister, Helen (Stu) Klausner of Crossville, TN; 11 grandchildren, Roger (Alicia) Johnson, Eric Allen, Nicolas (Brittainey) Allen, Lauren Allen, Sam Warren, Connor Warren, Evelyn Warren, Rachel (Dillon) Fairhead, Daniel McMahon, Kylie McMahon and Emma McMahon; 10 great-grandchildren; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

The family of Daniel E. “Boone” McMahon will receive friends on Thursday from 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday at 12:00 Noon at St. Brendan’s Church of Almond. Burial will be in Fairview Cemetery, Almond, NY.

Boone’s family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to St. Brendan’s/St. Jude’s Parish or CareFirstNY Hospice. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

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

Almond, NY / Lima, NY

Helen M. Mullen, at 99 years young, a resident of Alpine Manor, Lima, NY, formerly of Almond, passed away early Friday morning (October 20, 2023) at the Avon Nursing & Rehab Facility in Avon, NY.

Born in Alfred Station on February 9, 1924, she was the daughter of Charles & Agnes (Muszinski) Woodruff.

Helen grew up in Alfred Station and was a graduate of Alfred High School (Class of 1942). Following high school, she was employed at Acme Electric in Wellsville, Worthington Pump in Wellsville, where she operated a tower crane during WWII, and Glidden Pottery in Alfred. Helen became employed by Alfred University in 1969, where she worked for 22 years, until her retirement in 1991.

She resided in Hornell and Almond for many years and after getting married, she began raising her family and was happy being a “Stay-At-Home-Mom.”

Helen had been a communicant of St. Brendan’s Church of Almond and a member of the Almond Senior Citizens’ Group. She enjoyed camping with her family, daily walks with her dear friend, MaryAnn Norton & their trips to Nashville & Branson and listening to Country Music. She was also an avid reader and especially loved reading novels by her favorite author, Clive Cussler.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Willis “Burr” Woodruff; sister-in-law, Louise Woodruff; her great-granddaughter, Allison Gallow; her grandson-in-law, Craig Gallow.

Surviving are four daughters, Linda (David) Ryan of Odessa, NY, Mary (Mark) Schuster of Lima, NY, Janet (Larry “Scarey”) Egger of Winnabow, NC and Christine Freeland of Almond, NY. 10 grandchildren, Rebecca (Roger) Willis, Stephen (Nicole) Ryan, Melissa Gallow, Dane Schuster, Kimberly (Paul) Bielewicz, Meghan (Ken) Nowicki, Ryan (Danielle) Egger, Kristen (Blake) Allen, Nicole (Vance Nourse) Bordeaux and Gregory (Ashley) Freeland; 24 great-grandchildren; 4 great-great-grandchildren, all of whom she loved and adored. The feeling was mutual. Also survived by several nieces & nephews.

At Helen’s request there will be no calling hours. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, November 11, 2023 at 11:00 AM at St. Brendon’s Church of Almond with Fr. James Hartwell officiating.

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

Helen’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to either the American Thyroid Association, 2000 Duke St., (Suite 300), Alexandria, VA 22314 (Phone: 703-998-8890) or to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation, 5526 West 13400 South, #510, Herriman, UT 84096 (Phone: 888-936-6731).

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