Hornell, New York

John G. Fortuna – 78 – of 105 North Church St., Hornell, NY died Monday morning (December 4, 2023) at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born in Hornell on May 9, 1945, he was the son of John J. & Seraphina (Carretto) Fortuna.

John grew up in Hornell during, as he always said, “in the best of times” with his posse of friends. He was a graduate of St. Ann’s School and later graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1963). While in high school, John was a proud member of the Hornell Red Raider baseball team.

He was employed for 19 years as a welder at Foster Wheeler Energy Corporation in Dansville and was affectionately known as the “Best Welder in the World!” While at Foster Wheeler, John served as President of the International Association of Machinists Union. He was later employed for about 20 years at Alstom Transportation Corporation in Hornell, starting as a welding technician and eventually working his way up to head of welding technicians and manager of manufacturing.

John was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. He was also a member of the G. Carducci Lodge Sons of Italy.

Without a doubt, John was the “best handyman” around. He loved to do household repairs and there wasn’t anything that he couldn’t build or fix. You name it — John could do it!! He always took great pride in his work!

An avid golfer, John enjoyed playing a round or two of golf with his friends in the Wednesday Travel League. However, golf wasn’t the highlight of the day, it was the many laughs, good times and camaraderie that he enjoyed the most.

John’s love of sports, especially the game of baseball, is what developed the strongest bond within his family. Baseball brought the entire family so much joy and happiness for many years but most all it brought PRIDE. He taught his sons the game and loved coaching them, but his true joy was watching them play. From Grasshoppers, to the professional level, and everything in between John took tremendous pride in his son’s accomplishments. For many years, John served as a baseball coach in the American Legion Baseball League, teaching baseball to the young men in the Hornell and the surrounding area. “Love is the most important thing in the world, but baseball is pretty good too!!”—Yogi Berra

He was an avid Baltimore Oriole fan (MLB) and a huge Green Bay Packers fan (NFL) for over 50 years. His love of sports defined his life and the only thing more important and precious to him was his family — especially his children.

He was preceded in death by his parents, John & Seraphina Fortuna, both of whom were Italian immigrants arriving to the United States by boat through Ellis Island. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Gaeton, who died at 3 months of age.

John was married to the former Mary Milford who survives. Also surviving are his daughter, Patricia “Patti” (Richard) Clancy of Hornell; his sons, Michael Fortuna of Hornell and Donald (Renae) Fortuna of Hornell; his step-son, James (Katie) Mazza of Nunda; his sister, Lucy Booth of Eden Prairie, MN; his grandchildren, Patrick (Joan) Clancy of Hornell, Natalie and Adrianna Fortuna of Hornell; step-grandson, Jamier Scott Mazza; step granddaughter Jaiden Bently; his niece, nephew, aunt and several cousins.

At John’s request there will be no calling hours. Family & friends are invited to a Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10:00 AM Thursday, December 14, 2023 at St. Ann’s Church. Immediately following the Mass, please join us to celebrate John’s life at the Hornell Golf Club. Private graveside services will be held at St. Mary’s Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

John’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to “Smile Train Fund”, PO Box 96208, Washington, DC 20090-6208.

A Special Heartfelt “Thank-You” from John’s family goes out to Lena and Loving Home Care (especially Heather Flaitz) along with all of their staff who helped provide such loving care for John during his illness.

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 / Arkport

Michael L. “Mike” Townsend – 71 – formerly of Arkport and Williamsville, NY, passed away Monday morning (November 20, 2023) at his home.

Born in Kenmore, NY on April 8, 1952, he was the son of Richard and Marguerite (Thompson) Townsend.

Mike was a 1970 graduate of Sweet Home High School in Amherst, NY. He graduated from Buffalo State College in 1974 with a Fine Arts Degree, and in 1979 earned his Master’s Degree in Art Education. Mike taught in Niagara Falls at LaSalle High School and NF High School for two years before acquiring his teaching position at Lewiston-Porter School District in Youngstown, NY. He taught there from 1976 until his retirement in 2011.

While at Lew-Port, Mike taught general art before developing a program in Photography. Affectionately known as “T” by his students, he went on to teach Advanced Placement in Photography. He served as Art Department Chair, Union Steward, and Union President during his tenure at L-P. Mike also coached the Girls Gymnastics Team and both the Boys and Girls Tennis Teams. Mike was an adjudicator for NYS Summer School for Media Arts Teachers’ Association and a facilitator for Art Exhibition at the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University. He was a supervisor of student teachers in the Art Education Department of area colleges. Mike is listed in Who’s Who in American Teachers.

In summers while off from school, Mike was a tour guide for Over-the-Falls Tours for many years, and in his retirement, served as adjudicator for the Erie County Fair Photography entries for four years. Many pieces of Mike’s personal photography are displayed at the MGM Grand Signature Suites in Las Vegas. He also enjoyed playing guitar and keyboard in a band for 33 years.

Mike was a member of the Arkport Branch of the Institute of Divine Metaphysical Research and enjoyed his brethren there, especially his brother in the faith, Lionel vanMonsjou.

In addition to his parents, Mike was preceded in death by his sister, Dawn Degman.

Mike is survived by his wife, Marianne (Racalto) Townsend; one son, Kyle (Kathryn) Townsend; daughters, Kecia (Corey) Nicholson and Katie (Bill) Bonczar of; 3 grandchildren, Barrett Nicholson, Liam & Makenna Bonczar; step-grandchildren, Rachel, Kyle, Nicholas, & Anthony; brother-in-law, Gene Degman; many in-laws, cousins, and his beloved Nutmeg.

To honor Mike’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 12:00 Noon at the Hornell Golf Club, 473 Seneca Road, North Hornell, NY. Another “Celebration of Life” will be held on Monday December 11, 2023 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Kenan Center, 433 Locust St., Lockport, NY.

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

Mike’s family requests that, in lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital by visiting www.stjude.org in memory of Michael L. Townsend or to the Kenan Center online.

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

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.