Obituaries

Daniel F. Giras-of Alden, New York passed away February 9, 2025. Daniel was a a 32nd Degree Life Member of the Alden/Akron Masonic Lodge. A 50-year member of the Buffalo Consistory and the Ismailia Shriners, of West Seneca.  He volunteered for the Shriners by driving children and their families to the Shriner’s Hospital in Erie, PA. He was active in the Shriners Mini Car Parades and volunteered at the Shrine Circus selling souvenirs. Dan was a truck driver for Trans American Trucking and Higgins Hauling, driving in all 50 states.  He loved his family, traveling with his late wife Sally

Beverly (Bev) A. Grove passed away on February 4, 2025, leaving behind a lifetime of love, adventure, and dedication to family and friends. Born on December 5, 1941, in Medina, New York, Beverly embraced life with a spirit of curiosity and generosity that touched everyone around her. Beverly’s love of travel took her across 49 states and beyond, including Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, along with numerous river boat cruises. She was a former volunteer with the Association of Twigs at Medina Memorial Hospital, an active member of the Akron/Newstead Senior Center, enjoyed knitting, and had a gift of transforming

Naomi R. Covert, born on January 1, 1926 in Royalton, NY, and a long-time resident of Akron, NY, passed away peacefully on February 1, 2025. A beloved figure in her community, Naomi was known for her love of growing flowers, reading Harlequin Romance novels, and her dedicated service as a superintendent and Sunday School teacher. She was also a proud member of the Dorcas Club for many years. Naomi is survived by her daughter Kathy (Robert) Artico and her adored grandchildren Kristen Keith, Jeremy (Jennifer Marquart) Keith, and Matthew (Jennifer) Heppner. She was the proud great-grandmother of ten and great-great-grandmother

Lester Cummings, also known as Gary, was born on September 20, 1946, in Newstead, New York, and passed away on February 3, 2025 in Akron, NY. He was a beloved member of the community, known for his philanthropic nature and his love for helping others.  He was an integral part of the automotive industry, where he diligently served in the shipping department of Harrison Radiator until his retirement. Gary was an ardent Yankees fan and was often found cheering on his team. His love for fishing and his deep affection for animals were the other passions that filled his life. 

Charles R. Thompson, 92 of Basom, New York, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at the Greenfields Health and Rehabilitation Facility in Lancaster, NY. He was born August 31, 1932 in Akron, NY, a son of the late Jay and Minnie Buckholtz Thompson. Survivors include his nephews, Robert (LaNora) Thompson of Basom and John (Lori) Thompson of Attica. Great nephews and niece, Daniel (Katie) Manges of Oakfield and Diana (Phillip) Harrison of Dansville, NY, Bryan (Robyn) Thompson of Irondequoit, Steven Thompson of Buffalo and Owen Thompson of Buffalo. Great-great nephews and nieces, Ryan Manges, Alaina Manges, Kaelyn Oliver

Jean Susan Klotzbach Rudolph went home to be with her Lord and Savior on February 1, 2025 surrounded by her loving family.  She was born on October 14, 1930 in Indian Falls, NY the daughter of the late Clara and Peter Klotzbach Jr., the 10th of 13 Children.  She married Richard M. Rudolph October 22, 1948 and they enjoyed a marriage of 73 years together until his passing on January 7, 2022.  Together they have four children; Mona Rudolph, Kenneth (Jinner) Rudolph, Betty (Boots) Hall, Tracy (Laurie) Rudolph, and 10 Grand-children.  Christopher (Michal) Rudolph, Benjamin (Liz) Rudolph, Trisha (Luke) Amos, Richard (Julia)

Gerald J. “Jerry” Butler of Alden, New York passed away January 31, 2025.  Beloved husband of 64 years to Marian (Balistieri) Butler; dear father of Michelle (Bob) Bliss, Sheryl (Joe) Bialoglowicz, Anne Marie Davis, Alan (Robin), Teresa (Mike Rushok) Roberts and Patti (Mike) Runge; loving grandfather of Shawn Bliss, Shannon (Jason) Roberts, Vincent (Chandra) Balducci, Kim (fiance Jim Abell) Davis, Ryan (Katelyn) Davis, Mary (Tory Hurtubise) Davis, Alec (fiance Stephanie Latoszek) Roberts, Derek Roberts, Jared (fiance Emma Cansdale) Roberts, Madysen Roberts, Jennifer (Ryan) Hejmanowski, Jeremy (Andrea) Butler, Evan Fix, Braeden Fix, Michael Gage, Selina (Miguel) Rodriguez, Michael (Mykayla) Kozlowski, Zach