Hornell, NY
Ellen C. Couture – 48 – of Willow Place, Hornell, died Wednesday (April 29, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Hornell, New York
Jerry E. Newell – 86 – of Locust Dr., Hornell, died unexpectedly early Sunday morning (April 26, 2026) at St. James Hospital.
Born in Cuba, NY on October 24, 1939, he was the son of Merle & Ida (Gray) Newell.
Jerry grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1958). He later continued his education by taking several college courses. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1958 – 1964
Throughout the years, Jerry resided in several locations, including Arcade, Buffalo and Albany. While living in Albany, he was employed for over 20 years at Consolidated Freight Lines, retiring as Freight Operations Manager.
Jerry loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting (especially deer), fishing (lake & streams) camping and diving. He was also an avid golfer.
In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, who he met & married while in his 60s and who died January 12, 2025. He was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, James Newell and Charles Newell; his sister Ida Schmitz.
Surviving are his sister, Betty (Norman) Avery of Hornell; 2 brothers, Merle Newell (who would die the very next day) and George Newell, both of Hornell; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Newell of Rochester; along with 2 step-children, nieces & nephews.
At Jerry’s request there will be no calling hours. Interment with military honors will be held at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Jerry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Vincent House , PO Box 566, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, New York
Merle R. Newell – 88 – of Locust Dr., Hornell, died Monday evening (April 27, 2026) at the Vincent House in Wayland, following a long illness.
Born in Cuba, NY on April 15, 1938, he was the son of Merle & Ida (Gray) Newell.
Merle grew up in Hornell where he attended Hornell public schools. He had been employed for a time at the former Max Wilkins Auto where he worked painting cars.
A veteran of the United States Army, Merle served his country from 1961 – 1966. While in the Army, he contracted lead poisoning and from that point on was unable to work. Following his honorable discharge from the US Army, Merle returned to the Hornell area and for most of his adult life resided on the Old Big Creek Road.
Merle was a former member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Hornell. In his younger years, Merle enjoyed deer hunting and also became a collector of old Hornell post cards, rare coins, postage stamps and old bottles. He was an avid Buffalo Bills Football fan — especially during the Super Bowl years. Merle also had a love of animals (especially cats) and would actually feed a wild bear on his property.
In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by 3 brothers, James Newell, Charles Newell and Jerry Newell (who died just one day before Merle’s death); his sister, Ida Schmitz.
Surviving are his sister, Betty (Norman) Avery of Hornell; his brother, George Newell of Hornell; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Newell of Rochester; along with nieces & nephews.
At Merle’s request there will be no calling hours. Interment with military honors will be held at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Merle’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Vincent House , PO Box 566, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Wellsville, New York
Barry Lee Eckstein of Wellsville, NY (formerly of Alfred, NY) passed away peacefully at Jones Memorial Hospital in Wellsville, NY.
Barry was born on October 10, 1950, in Wheeling, WV, to Eva (Katz) and Alex Eckstein. He grew up in Fair Lawn, NJ, alongside his older sister Barbara.
As a child, Barry developed lifelong passions for cars, music and spending time with his best friend, Shelby Asch. He enjoyed many happy summers at Lake Rickabear in northern New Jersey with friends and family, including his beloved Aunt Irene and Uncle Irv. Some of his fondest memories were made with his maternal cousins in Virginia—playing board games, getting into mischief and gathering around the table with Uncle Mo and Aunt Bess and their children Judy, Susan, Ellen and Louis, especially during Passover and other holidays. He often shared stories of youthful adventures, including a memorable (and slightly infamous) incident dropping water balloons from a railroad crossing in Fair Lawn, which ended with a visit from the local police.
After graduating from Fair Lawn High School in 1968, Barry attended Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, NY, where he studied industrial design and photography. His artistic talents were nurtured early on by his parents—his mother Eva, a painter, and his father Alex, who maintained a woodshop and home darkroom. Barry’s creative spirit was evident in his sculptural car designs and striking still-life photography.
Following his time at Pratt, Barry met the mother of his children, Sandy, and settled in New City, NY, where they raised their two daughters Laura Eckstein Jones and Rachel Mulgrew. Family life was filled with memorable traditions and simple joys—Sunday mornings with bagel spreads around the table, classical music playing in the background and evenings spent together watching movies or Saturday Night Live reruns with bowls of popcorn. They also shared bigger adventures, including an epic road trip from San Francisco to San Diego with many exciting stops along the way, including the Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz. Barry was known for his love of grilling, spending Sundays on the deck making his famous barbecue chicken, hamburgers and hot dogs. Music remained a constant in his life, and he shared that passion with his daughters—playing records in the basement and introducing them to favorites such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan. He also enjoyed listening to artists such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Radiohead.
Barry’s passion for photography led to a long and fulfilling career at Fuji Film, where he worked for many years.
In 2014, Barry moved to Alfred, NY, to be closer to his sister and her family. He became an active member of the community, serving as Secretary of the Alfred Village Zoning Board. Embracing life in western NY, he famously switched his football allegiance from the New York Giants to the Buffalo Bills—though he remained a devoted New York Yankees fan despite his friends’ attempts to convert him to the Toronto Blue Jays.
In his later years, Barry lived a quieter life in Alfred, NY, enjoying local events such as the MostArts Festival, community performances and time with family and friends. He appreciated the close-knit nature of the village and the connections he made there. Though he faced serious health challenges, he did so with resilience. His family is deeply grateful to the staff at Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center for their compassionate care in his final days and finds comfort in knowing he is now at peace.
Barry is survived by the mother of his children Sandy Eckstein (Dell); his daughters Laura (Michael) Jones of Los Angeles, CA and Rachel (John) Mulgrew and grandson Brody Mulgrew of New City, NY; his sister Barbara Greil (Larry) of Alfred, NY; his nephew Rob Greil and stepson Asher of West Henrietta, NY; his niece Maddie Greil and fiancé Kevin Kieselbach of Salt Lake City, UT and many cousins across the country.
At Barry’s request there will be no calling hours. Private graveside services will be held at Alfred-Rural Cemetery at the convenience of the family.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY
In lieu of flowers, donations in Barry’s honor may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Addison, New York
Charles G. “Chuck” Allen, 75, of Addison, New York, passed away at home on April 26, 2026, after a short
battle with cancer.
Born on October 5, 1950, to Gilbert Allen and Lucille Phillips, Chuck was a lifelong Southern Tier resident who built his life on hard work, determination, and doing things his own way. He was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, nephew, and friend—known to many as a tough, no-nonsense man who could be difficult at times, but who also showed a surprising generosity to others.
Chuck grew up in Corning, New York, and graduated from West High School in 1970. During his school years, he worked at Kennedy Valve Corporation in Elmira, helping manufacture fire hydrants and parts, and later at Jones Pontiac in Corning in the body shop. After graduation, he continued his work at Jones Pontiac before moving on to a variety of roles, including truck driving for Chemung Contractors. He also spent time at the Painted Post Car-Mart and worked for Tom’s South Corning Collision.
In 1977, Chuck took a major step forward by establishing Allen’s Auto Body Shop in Painted Post. Just a few years later, in 1980, he purchased a gas station in Addison, renaming it Allen’s Auto—a business he proudly owned and operated for decades until his passing. Through his work, Chuck became a familiar face in the community, known for his skill, his work ethic, and his straightforward personality.
Chuck is survived by his wife, Connie Johnson Allen, whom he married on August 21, 1971; his daughter, Cindy Allen, and grandson, Nicholas Allen, of Corning, New York; his brothers, Bob Montgomery of Texas; Tom (Leslie) Allen of Florida; Bob (Becky) Allen, Jim (Cheri) Allen, and Steve (Barbara) Allen, all of Indiana. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews cousins, extended family including Jeremy and Karen Clarkson of Corning, New York, and many special friends. He will also be missed by his beloved cat, Charlie.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Joe Allen of Florida.
A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Fran’s Landing, 996 Addison Rd, Painted Post, NY.
In honor of Chuck, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Shriners Children’s Hospital, Pancreatic Cancer Alliance, Pawz and Purrz Animal Rescue, or the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA.
Chuck lived life on his own terms—steadfast, stubborn, and committed to his work. While he could be rough around the edges, his presence left a lasting impression on those who knew him well, and his legacy will carry on through the business he built and the community he served.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Arkport, New York
Gary R. Recktenwald – 78 – of North Augusta, SC, formerly of Arkport, died unexpectedly on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Piedmont Hospital in Augusta, GA.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Wellsville, New York
Chad Lee Bush – 52 – of 167 Early St., Wellsville, died unexpectedly Sunday morning (April 19, 2026) at St. James Hospital in Hornell.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Campbell, New York
Jason G. Strauss, 41, of Campbell, NY, formerly of Addison, NY, passed away Tuesday evening (April 21, 2026), surrounded by his loving family at home.
Born on April 24, 1984, in Wellsboro, PA, Jason was the beloved son of Stephen Strauss, Sr. and Diane (Fangemann) Strauss.
He grew up in Addison, NY, where he attended Addison Central School. Jason went on to work in the family business, Strauss’s Tree Service, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication. Four years ago, Jason and his wife, Jessica, started a “homestead” together, raising beef stock and other livestock and also growing vegetables and flowers.
Jason was a devoted husband, father, son, and brother. He found his greatest joy in spending time with his family and creating lasting memories with those he loved. Jason will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved him.
He is survived by his wife, Jessica Strauss; his daughters, Anna Strauss (Seth Mealy) and Grace Strauss; his stepdaughter, Liah Ector; and his unborn grandson, Gus Mealy, expected in July. He is also survived by his mother, Diane Strauss; his brothers, Stephen (Yvonne) Strauss and Matthew Strauss (Kassandra Hendrickson); and several nieces and nephews, Sadie, Henry, Charlie, Emily, and Isaac Strauss, along with many aunts and uncles.
Jason was preceded in death by his father, Stephen Strauss, Sr; his paternal grandparents, John Sr. and Barbara Strauss; maternal grandparents, Ruby and Gerard Fangemann.
A Memorial Service / Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 2:00 PM at the Rathbone United Methodist Church, 6703 County Route 21, Addison, NY 14801. All are welcome to attend.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
The family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Rathbone United Methodist Church, PO Box 1, Addison, NY 14801.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, New York
Helen J. Robbins – (100 years young) – formerly of 41 Oak St., Hornell, died Sunday evening (April 19, 2026) at Updyke’s Willow Ridge Nursing Facility where she had resided for the past 3 years.
Born in Hornell on May 24, 1925, she was the daughter of Antonio & Carmela (DeGaetano) Colomaio.
Helen grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of St. Ann’s School. She later graduated from Hornell High School (class of 1943).
For several years, Helen was employed as a legal secretary for the law office of Whiteman & Whiteman and later as a stenographer for Charles Cutler Insurance Agency. For 33 years she served as a stenographer & senior clerk for the New York State Department of Health, retiring in 1981 following 33 years of service.
Helen was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a lifelong communicant of St. Ann’s Church. She was a former member & secretary for the Ladies Auxiliary Son’s of Italy; recording secretary of St. Anthony’s Society; and a member of the CSEA Retirees.
Along with her sisters, Helen enjoyed spending time in the kitchen baking & cooking for family & friends especially during the holiday seasons. She loved playing bingo and in her younger years could find a game nearly every night. Helen enjoyed “games of chance” such as “scratch-off” lotto tickets and visiting the casinos in Atlantic City and Salamanca. In her younger years she enjoyed visiting her husband’s family in New York City and spending time at Coney Island. She also cherished the many years that she & her family spent at their cottage on Conesus Lake (near a cottage owned by former New York Yankee great, Phil Rizzuto).
Helen was married on August 28, 1948 to Harold Robbins who died in 1982. She was also preceded in death by her son, Peter Robbins who died in 2020; 2 brothers & their wives, Peter (Betty) Colomaio and Matt (Mary) Colomaio; her sister & husband, Domenica “Maggie” Tony Montemarano; brothers-in-laws, Ezio Fiacco and Joseph “Muzzy” DiCosimo.
Surviving are 2 sisters, Mary Fiacco of Hornell and Rose DiCosimo of Hornell; her daughter-in-law, Patricia “Patti” Robbins of Hornell; 2 grandsons, Mike (Kristina) Robbins of Hornell and Brian (Shasta) Robbins of Moore, SC; 2 great-grandsons, Connor Robbins and Theoden “Theo” Robbins; several nieces, nephews & cousins.
The family of Helen J. Robbins will receive friends on Friday from 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM and 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday at 9:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.
Helen’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to Updyke’s Willow Ridge, 131 Hornell St., Hornell, NY 14843. Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.
A big “THANK-YOU” from Helen’s family to the staff at Updyke’s and also the kind folks at CareFirst Hospice for making Helen’s final days peaceful and dignified. Your kindness and professionalism is truly appreciated and will never be forgotten!
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, New York
Frederick P. “Fred” Lang – (80) – formerly of Hornell, died early Monday morning (December 15, 2025) at his home in St. Petersburg FL, following a long illness.
Born in Rochester, NY on January 17, 1945, he was the son of Bernard & Emma Jeanette (Brighman) Lang.
When Fred was just a small child, his mother died and from 1949 – 1955 he lived at St. Joseph’s Villa and was raised by the Sisters of St. Joseph. After his father married the former Dorothy Ewing, Fred was able to move back and was raised by his dad & step-mother and lived in Scottsville, NY.
He was a graduate of Wheatland-Chili High School (class of 1963). Following high school graduation, Fred enlisted in the US Navy where he was a member of the Navy Drill Team. He served his country during the Vietnam Era and had been stationed aboard the USS Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR), a CVA 42 Aircraft Carrier. He was honorably discharged in 1967.
After being discharged from the Navy, Fred moved to the Hornell area and began his career in the insurance business and for two years was employed by Allstate Insurance, selling insurance out of the Sears Roebuck Store in Hornell.
On January 1, 1970, Fred purchased the E. Allan Witter Insurance Agency which he operated until 1991. In 1973, he established the Lang Agency inc., which was both Insurance Agency and Real Estate Agency. Throughout the years the Lang Agency was operated from several locations, including Main St., Canisteo, 17 Church St., Hornell, 176 Main St., Hornell, 364 Seneca Road, North Hornell and 27 Main St., Hornell. He retired in January, 2006. In addition to his real estate & insurance businesses, Fred owned & operated Maple City Appraisals during the 1980s & 1990s. He later served as a real estate consultant.
Following his retirement in 2006, Fred spent the winter months in St. Petersburg, FL and the summer months at his cottage on Lake Demon.
Fred had been a communicant of St. Ann’s Church of Hornell and more recently attended St. Mary’s Church of Canaseraga. He was a 50 year member of the Hornell Elks Lodge; 50 year member of the Hornell American Legion; a life member of the Hornell VFW and a member of the Loyal Order of the Moose.
He was an avid card player and especially enjoyed playing poker, euchre, hearts & pitch. Fred also loved rooting for the Buffalo Bills, Buffalo Sabres and the Tampa Bay Lightning. A life-long swimmer, he stayed in shape by taking his daily swims in his swimming pool or the Ocean (during the winter months in Florida) or in Lake Demon (during the summer months). For many years Fred also stayed in shape by playing in the YMCA Men’s Noon Basketball League.
In addition to his parents and step-mother, Fred was preceded in death by his brother, William Lang.
He was married on February 7, 2025 to his longtime “BETTER-HALF”, the former Kathy Clark Panter who survives. Also surviving are 2 sons, Frederick Lang and Theodore “Ted” Lang; his daughter, Jeanette “Jenny” Rauber; his step-children, Karla (Jason) Dungan, David (Taylor) Panter and Beth (Kenny) Depew; his half-brother, Charles (Aleshia) Lang; his step-brother, James Jessen; several grandchildren; step-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.
At Fred’s request there will be no calling hours. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at 12:00 Noon at St. Mary’s Church of Canaseraga immediately followed by a “GOING AWAY PARTY” at the Hornell Elks Lodge.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Fred’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Hornell YMCA, 18 Center St., Hornell, NY.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.