Hornell, NY / Canisteo, NY
Justine N. Bradford – 27 – of Terry St., Hornell, died unexpectedly Tuesday morning (May 6, 2026) at St. James Hospital due to complications stemming from her longtime battle with Crohn’s Disease.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
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.
Born in Hornell on April 8, 1947, he was the son of George & Suzanne (Pruner) Recktenwald. Gary had been a communicant of St. Ignatius Loyola Church where he actually served as a church “grounds-keeper” in his youth by cutting grass and trimming bushes.
Gary grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School class of 1966. While living in Brockport, NY, he married to the former Alana Loohn (who died in 1984). He received his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Brockport State College (SUNY Brockport) and his Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Florida.
After moving back to New York State, Gary & Alana resided in Arkport where Gary began his teaching career at Arkport Central School. During this time he continued his education by taking classes at Alfred University.
Gary served as a History teacher at Arkport Central School for 33 years and even after his retirement continued to serve as a substitute teacher for seven more years for a total of 40 years of educating the youth at Arkport Central School. During his teaching years he helped coach track, served as advisor for classes, Yearbook Advisor and later was the Ski Club Advisor. When subbing for art classes his love for art blossomed. He began drawing and painting which he continued throughout his life. During the summer months, Gary stayed busy painting houses with friends and a few previous years cleaning and maintaining Arkport Central School. Throughout the years, he owned several rental properties which also kept him busy with repairs and general maintenance.
Gary began traveling abroad with his wife Alana during the summer of 1969. They backpacked in Europe for two months. Then when Gary started teaching he began taking student groups to Europe with EF. He also included parents and family members. He traveled to 4 continents. Another big activity was family trips to Disney World. He went dozens of times and also collected hundreds of Disney pins. Gary’s love of collecting started with stamps and then when he was a Boy Scout he earned every patch on his way to becoming an Eagle Scout. He attended scout camp every summer. As a Boy Scout he joined a special group that learned beading and making American Indian costumes. Gary honored Native Americans by performing authentic dances in parades wearing ceremonial headdresses and costumes. He collected stamps, cards, coins, pocket watches and a variety of memorabilia. Gary also enjoyed his time spent golfing with friends & fellow teachers and belonged to a golf league at the Hornell Country Club. He loved building, construction and handyman work. He also loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. Gary was genuinely warm-hearted. He found joy in every day.
In addition to his first wife, (and high school sweetheart) Alana Loohn, Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bob” Recktenwald.
He was married on July 6, 1986 to the former Linda Sue Flaitz who survives. Also surviving are his children, Heidi (Brian) Lewis of Corning, Gary (Molly) Recktenwald of North Augusta, SC and George “Jake” Recktenwald of Greenwood, SC; his sister, Sally Della Villa of Mendon, NY; 4 grandchildren, Daniel Marino, Mary Ruth Ballard, Samuel Recktenwald and Lucas Recktenwald; along with many nieces & nephews.
The family of Gary R. Recktenwald will receive friends on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 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 Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Following services there will be a memorial gathering for Gary at The Main Place, Hornell, NY. Family, friends and former students are invited from 3-6 pm. (Please let family know if you will attend.)
Gary’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Arkport Alumni Association, PO Box 28, Arkport, NY 14807. All donations go directly to student scholarships.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.
Hornell, NY / Lakeland, FL
James G. “Jim” Congelli – 88 – of Lakeland, FL, formerly of Hornell, died early Sunday morning (May 3, 2026) at Lakeland Regional Health, following a long illness.
Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
Cameron Mills, NY
Deborah Ann Hassler, 65, of Cameron Mills, New York, passed away peacefully at home on May 1, 2026, surrounded by her four children, with her husband holding both of her hands.
Born on December 30, 1960, in Shipley, Bradford, Yorkshire, England, Deborah came to the United States at the age of six aboard the Queen Mary, beginning a life defined by courage, resilience, and adventure. She was the youngest of four children, a joyful and unexpected surprise to her parents a decade after their last child.
At just 15 years old, Deborah met the love of her life, Charles Hassler. Drawn to his rebellious spirit and big heart, she fell for him immediately.
They were married on August 22, 1981, and went on to share nearly 45 years of marriage and more than 50 years side by side, living a life full of adventure and misadventure in equal measure.
Together, they built a bond that was unbreakable and were often described by those who knew them as something like Bonnie and Clyde, and yes, there may have been a story or two to support that.
Deborah was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family fiercely. She raised her four children to be strong, independent, and resilient, instilling in them the same grit and determination that defined her own life.
She was known for her fierce strength, her quiet grace, and her sharp sense of humor, which never left her, even in the hardest moments.
She fought a long and courageous battle with breast cancer, first diagnosed in 2021 and returning in 2026. Through it all, she remained deeply private, incredibly strong, and grounded in love for her family.
Deborah is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Hassler; her children, Chad Hassler and his wife Lauren, Sarah Hassler and her partner Craig, Jacob Hassler and his wife Nicole, and Rachel Nudd and her husband Jon; and her cherished grandchildren, Landon, Chase, Anthony, and Noelle, who brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her siblings, Valerie Bernheiser, Pauline Bernheiser, and Barry Grieve.
Per her wishes, Deborah was cremated. There will be no formal service. Her family plans to scatter her ashes one day alongside her husband’s beneath the sycamore tree they planted together on their property, a place that reflects the life they built side by side.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Deborah’s memory to: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, 333 Westmoreland Dr., Rochester, NY 14620 (585) 442-5437) www.rmhcrochester.org
They lived boldly, loved fiercely, and never once chose the easy road.
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.
Hornell, NY
Ellen C. Couture – 48 – of Willow Place, Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (April 29, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Rochester, NY on February 25, 1978, she was the daughter of John & Cheryl (Belanger) McNelis.
As a young child, Ellen lived in Chili, but she grew up in Caledonia and graduated from Caledonia-Mumford High School (class of 1996). She lived in Scottsville for most of her adult life, moving to Hornell in 2026.
Ellen was a devoted stay-at-home mom, a role she cherished beyond measure, before deciding to further her education about 10 years ago. She enrolled in Genesee Community College where she earned her Associate’s Degree in Human Services. Ellen’s nurturing personality led her to a career in helping others. She was employed at Changes and Changes, Inc. as a Domestic Violence Advocate and at Genesee ACE Employment Services as a Peer Advocate and Employment Specialist helping individuals select, obtain, and maintain employment. She was also a Community Action Volunteer from 2017-2020.
Gardening was one of Ellen’s passions. She enjoyed planting flowers, and, for a time worked in the landscaping industry. She was also proud of her sobriety and was an active participant in Alcoholics Anonymous. However, Ellen found the most joy spending time with her family. She also adored her feline companions, Mittens & Bubba.
Ellen is survived by her children, Daniel Couture of Mumford, NY, Spencer Couture of Mumford, NY, & Molly Rossborough of Dansville, NY; her mother, Cheryl McNelis of Hornell; 4 sisters, Lynne (Charlie Young) McNelis of Rush, NY, Mary Jackson of Anthem, AZ, Kathleen (Ryan) Cameron of Scottsville, NY, & Joyce (Jesse Balliett) McNelis of Corning, NY; 2 brothers, David McNelis of Hornell and William McNelis of Hornell; nephews, Cole & John Cameron and Wade & Devin Jackson; several aunts, uncles, & cousins.
She was preceded in death by her father, John A. McNelis who died February 21, 2013.
Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Mass on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church, 35 Erie Avenue, Hornell, NY with Father Stan Kacprzak officiating. Final interment will take place on Monday, May 11, 2026 at 11:00 AM in Saint Columba Cemetery, Caledonia, NY.
Ellen’s family requests that memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Area Humane Society by visiting https://www.hornellanimalshelter.org/Donate.
Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.
To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.
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.
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.