Obituaries

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

Vivian H. (nee Mosman) Kidder of Clarence Center, New York formerly of Alden, NY passed away January 30, 2025. Beloved wife of the late Alan Kidder; dear mother of Thomas (Patti), Lori (late Samuel) Becker, David (Mary), Richard (Nancy) and Jeffrey (Loretta Lucas) Kidder; also survived by 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren; sister of Edward (Ann) Mosman, Phyllis Koblich, Judith (late David) Prieto and the late William (late Mary) Mosman. Family will be present at the Charles Meyer Funeral Home, 13228 Broadway Alden, NY on Monday from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m.  Funeral Services will be held at the Alden Presbyterian

With a heart as deep as the ocean he loved, Randolph “Randy” McWilliams passed on January 24, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love, warmth, and adventure. Randy was born in Honolulu, Hawaii on August 15, 1960 to the late Bobby-Joe and Wilhelmina (Bush) McWilliams. Randy’s spirit was as boundless as the sea, and his laughter as refreshing as a sea breeze. A doting father and caring brother, his absence leaves a void that could never be filled, but his memory will continue to inspire and uplift all who knew him. Randy had a deep, unwavering love for the outdoors.

Mary Mast Penninger, 90, of the Croft Community passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025, at Cadence in Huntersville. Daughter of the late Daniel and Susan Mast, Mary was born October 15, 1934, in Clarence, NY at the family farm. She was a graduate of Akron High School, where she excelled in baseball. She was an avid New York Yankees fan. She loved sports, but especially watching her grandchildren in their various endeavors! Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Donald E. Penninger, and siblings, Alice Hendry, Ruth Crane, and Mildred Graff. She is survived by her beloved children, Ray