Hornell, New York

Ellen P. Powers – 83 – of 1190 County Route 66, Hornell, formerly of Washington St., Hornell, died Tuesday afternoon (June 3, 2025) at her home, following a long illness.

Born in Brooklyn, NY on June 18, 1941, she was the daughter of Frank & Mildred (Murphy) Fogarty.

Raised on Lake Ronkonkoma, LI, Ellen was a graduate of Sachem High School (class of 1959).  While living on Long Island, she held several jobs including waitressing and working in an antique shop.  Ellen resided in Florida for several years and served as a Church Day Care Provider.  She has been living in the Hornell area for the past 45 years.

Ellen was a former member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  She enjoyed crafting, antiquing and would often “buy & sell” antiques.

She was married to James “Wayne” Powers who died February 27, 2022.  She was also preceded in death by 2 sisters, Denise Fogarty and Dorothy Fogarty.

Surviving are her children, Robin Rideout of Hornell, Robert Rideout of Maryland , Edward Rideout of Hornell, Kimberly (Dan Congdon) Kassay of Hornell, Mildred Kassay of Hornell, Randi (Steve) Parsell of Port Orange, FL and Frank (Michelle) Powers of El Paso, TX; 2 sisters, Maureen (Ronald) Palmer of Hornell and Francine (Dana) Lemme of Mt. Dora, FL; her brother, Frank (Cynthia) Fogarty II of Mt. Dora, FL; numerous grandchildren; great-grandchildren; great-great-grandchildren; nieces & nephews.

At Ellen’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Ellen’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

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

Hornell, New York

Ronald S. “Ron” Benson – 87 – of State Route 21, Hornell, died early Friday morning (May 23, 2025) at St. James Hospital following a brief illness.

Born in Hornell on September 10, 1937 he was the son of Gustave  “Gus” and Fannie (Sage) Benson.

He grew up on Maple Street with his two sisters, Bonnie and Joyce, and graduated from Hornell High School in 1955.  He married his high school sweetheart Marilyn Sheridan (Murphy) and they had three daughters before they divorced amicably.

Ron had a long career in Accounting with the Erie Lackawanna Railroad taking him to live in Scranton, PA, Cleveland, OH, Pittsburgh, PA, and Albany New York.  He lived in Cleveland for many years where he met his second wife, Wilma Benson to whom he was married until her death in 1991. He initially retired in Cleveland, OH before settling again in his beloved hometown of Hornell where he met his love and companion, Sharon Benson (Miles Taylor) whom he married in 2017.  Ron had been a member of the Hornell Moose Lodge and the Hornell American Legion.

He was a lifelong fisherman and loyal New York Yankees and Cleveland Browns fan.  Ron never missed watching a Yankees game on TV, was happiest out on a lake with Johnny Cash playing from the speaker and a fishing pole in his hand, or spending time telling stories or jokes to his family.

Ron is survived by his beloved wife Sharon Benson; daughters Linda Smith (Wayne), and Becky Grano (Steve); 2 step-children, Jill Preston (Matt) and Tammy Evans (John); as well as his four grandchildren Kirsten Matyjasik (Ryan), Amy Etzkorn (John), Anthony and Alex Grano; his great- grandchildren, Millie and Walt Matyjasik, and Lyla, Rosalie and the family’s newest addition, Christopher Etzkorn; as well as several nieces and nephews.  Ron is preceded in death by his cherished daughter, Karen; wife Wilma; parents; and sisters.

The family of Ronald S. “Ron” Benson will receive friends on Wednesday, June 4, 2025 from

11:00 AM until 12:00 Noon at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Funeral Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 12:00 Noon with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating.  Burial will be in Lakewood Park Cemetery, Rocky River, OH.

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

Hornell, NY

William T. “Bill” McNelis – 81 – of 469 McKinley Avenue, Hornell, died May 21, 2025, surrounded by his loving family following a long illness.  Bill was a relentless fighter who defied medical expectations.  His life was a tribute to his spirit and “never give up” attitude.  Bill was an avid conversationalist who never missed an opportunity to catch up with friends and share a laugh.

Born in Hornell on June 12, 1943, he was the son of Robert & Catherine (Quackenbush) McNelis.

Bill was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1962) and later earned his associate’s degree in accounting from the Rochester Business Institute (RBI).

He was employed for 30 years at the New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG), retiring in 1993 as a lineman.  He also served as steward at the Knights of Columbus for several years.

Bill was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church.  He served as a trustee for the Village of North Hornell. He was also a 3rd degree member of the Hornell Knights of Columbus.

For 8 years, Bill served as a coach for the Hornell Midget Football League.  He also coached Little League Baseball for 3 years and Babe Ruth League Baseball for 12 years.  He was an avid sports fan who was especially loyal to the New York Yankees and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

He was married on September 19, 1964, to the former Mary Daniels who died April 28, 2005.  He was also preceded in death by two brothers, Robert (Sue) McNelis & John McNelis; sister, Mary (Tom) McKinley; grandson, John David McNelis.

Surviving are his fiancé, the former Nancy Stevens-Loper and her family.  Also surviving are 1 son, John (Beth) McNelis of Penn Yan; 1 daughter, Kathy (Joe) Flint of North Hornell; 2 brothers, Dave (Mary) McNelis of Elmira and Jim (Marianne) McNelis of Loon Lake; 2 sisters, Bridget (David) McBride and Ellen (Mike) Eckstein, both of Addison; sister-in-law, Cheryl McNelis of Hornell; 6 grandchildren, Mackenzie (Scott Betts) McNelis, Kelsie (Michael) Wick, Will McNelis, Alex (Liset) Flint, Spencer (Victoria) Flint and Elliott (Lauran) Flint; great-granddaughters Rafaela Flint and Vera Flint; many nieces & nephews whom he loved; many loving brothers- and sisters-in-law.

The family of William T. McNelis will receive friends on Friday, May 30th from 4 – 7 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, May 31st at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Bill’s family request that memorial contributions in his name be made to CareFirst Hospice, 3805 Meads Creed Road, Painted Post, NY 14870 or St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105 or by visiting https://www.stjude.org/donate/.  Memorial forms will be available at the Dagon Funeral Home.

Hornell, New York

Lawrence J. “Larry” Gath – (76) – formerly of 23 East Main St., Hornell, died early Saturday morning (May 17, 2025) at Elderwood at Hornell Nursing Facility, where he had resided for the past two years.

Born in Wellsville, NY on January 26, 1949, he was the son of George & Edna (Smith) Gath.

Larry grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1967).  While in high school, he was employed at the former Marion Rohr Corporation sweeping floors several nights per week and also worked at Sinclair Gas Station pumping gas & washing cars.

Following high school graduation, Larry was employed for about three years at the former Tuttle & Rockwell store and for about seven years as a machine operator at the former Corbin Wood Products in Hornell.

In 1976, Larry began working as a trackman (doing track maintenance) at Conrail in Hornell.  For 23 years he was employed as a Production Worked at Morrison Knudsen (MK), which later became Amrail, repairing railroad cars.  He retired in 2009.

Larry was an avid reader and especially enjoyed reading mechanical periodicals such as Popular Mechanics and Popular Science.  He also enjoyed rooting for the New York Yankees.

He was married on June 28, 1975 to the former Maryann Alexin who died April 28, 2018.  He was also preceded in death byhis sister, Mary Arcieri who died April 6, 2025.

Surviving are his brother, Pete (Jerry) Gath of Fremont; along with several nieces & nephews.

At Larry’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Larry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Dialysis Unit of Elderwood of Hornell, 1 Bethesda Dr., Hornell, NY.

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

Almond, New York

Gerald H. “Jerry” Kernan – 73 – of McHenry Valley Road, Almond, NY died unexpectedly Monday morning (May 12, 2025) at the Orlando Regional Medical Center in Orlando, FL where he was taken after becoming ill while returning from vacation in Orlando.

Born in Hornell on May 26, 1951, he was the son of John & Eleanor (Griswold) Kernan.

A lifelong resident of the Almond area, Jerry was a graduate of Alfred-Almond Central School (class of 1969).  He had been employed for nearly 25 years in the maintenance department of Alfred University and for about 15 years served as equipment manager of the Alfred University Athletic Department, retiring about 14 years ago following 40 years of service.  He later spent 7 years as the groundskeeper for the athletic department at Alfred State College, and from 2017 until current he worked in the Green Thumb program for the NYS DEC.

A true “Outdoorsman,” Jerry cherished his time spent at his cottage on Honeoye Lake and on his hunting property affectionately called 4D Acres Camp.  He enjoyed hunting (deer & small game), fishing (especially on Honeoye Lake) and golfing.

Jerry was a lifelong member of the Almond Rod & Gun Club and a 33 year member of the Hornell Elks Lodge.  He was an avid Buffalo Bills (NFL) football fan (especially during the Super Bowl Years) and also enjoyed rooting for the Atlanta Braves (MLB).  Jerry had a deep love of his family and thoroughly enjoyed attending his grandchildren’s sporting events and school functions.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his brother, Ken Kernan.

He was married on May 5, 1972 (53 years) to the former Eloise Kuhn who survives.  Also surviving are 2 sons, Steven (Amanda Bailey) Kernan of Almond and Eric (Laura) Kernan of Almond; 3 sisters, Sherry Guinnip of Wellsville, NY, Bonnie (Ken) Ordway of Arkport and Janice (Ozzie) Osborne of Atlanta, GA; 2 brothers, John Kernan of Hornell and Donald (Chris) Kernan of Almond; 4 grandchildren, Aeden O’Connor, Bailey Kernan, Julia Price and Allison Kernan; several in-laws, cousins, nieces & nephews.

At Jerry’s request there will be no calling hours.  Family & friends are invited to a “Celebration of Life” on Thursday, May 29, 2025 from 4:00 PM until 7:00 PM at the Hornell Elks Lodge, Broadway Mall, Hornell, NY.  All are welcome!!  A private graveside service will be held at Woodlawn Cemetery, Almond, 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 Almond Rod & Gun Club, C/O Eric Kernan, 1329 McHenry Valley Road, Almond, NY  14804.

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

Almond, New York

Patricia (Pat, Patsy, Coach) McEvoy, 90, of Almond passed away peacefully in her home early Sunday morning, January 19, 2025, surrounded by her family and friends.

Born in Hornell on March 17th, 1934, she was the daughter of the late Bridget Caparulo Shiner and Leon Shiner.

She was a Hornell native, graduating from Hornell High School class of 1951.  After graduating, Pat went on to attend Ithaca College, graduating in 1955 with a degree in Physical Education.  Shortly after, she began her teaching career in Bath.  Following the death of her father, she began teaching at Alfred-Almond where she taught for 30 plus years.  After retirement she was a substitute teacher at the Elementary level for another 12 years.

Pat was a successful Soccer and Volleyball coach for Alfred-Almond.  Her Soccer team was the first to win the Section V trophy for Girls Soccer in 1985. The following year, in 1986, her team lost in the semi-finals in the state soccer tournament.  She led her volleyball team to the sectional finals many times.  Additionally, she was an officiate for Girls Basketball and Softball.  Pat always enjoyed running into those she taught and coached many, many years later.

Not only was Pat successful in the teams she coached, but she was a pioneer in the formation of High School Girls athletics.  Serving on many local, Section V and State committees, she ensured Girls received fair treatment in sports programs.  Seeing the growth in Girls and Women’s sports alike brought her much happiness.  She also served as the chairperson of the NAGWS Soccer Rules Committee; Secretary of the Women’s State Officials Organization; Section V Co-Coordinator for the site selection for Girls Soccer sectionals; first Steuben County Girls Soccer Chairperson; Section V Girls Volleyball coordinator; and member of the Hornell Alumni Association.  Her success led her to being inducted into the Alfred-Almond and Hornell Sports Hall of Fame.

Pat enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren whom she loved dearly.  She especially enjoyed watching them at their various activities and sporting events.  Aside of being her grandchildren’s number one fan, she was a huge fan of the Buffalo Bills and Syracuse University Men and Women’s athletics.  Additionally, her hobbies included traveling, camping, cross-country skiing, reading, and puzzles.  She even participated in the Tug Hill Race and backpacking New York’s tallest mountain (Mount Marcy).

She was predeceased in death by parents Bridget and Leon Shiner; siblings, Mary, Leon Jr, William, George, and former husband, James McEvoy.

Pat is survived by her four Children: Cara (Bob Hinds) Wilkinson of Dansville, Todd (Anna) McEvoy of Cullman, AL, Ryan (Heather Sherman) McEvoy and Chad (Charmaine Nordquist) McEvoy both of Raleigh, NC; six grandchildren, Derek Wilkinson, Alexis Hinds, Zachery (Amanda Rini) McEvoy, Jeffrey McEvoy, Kaylee McEvoy and Mia McEvoy; along with several nieces and nephews. Additionally, she is survived by her long-time best friend and caretaker, Sandy Cutter.

Following Pats wishes, there will be no services. A “Celebration of Life” will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2025 from 1:00 PM until 4:00 PM at The Main Place, 251 Main St., Hornell, NY.  A private graveside service will be held at the convenience of the family.

The family would like to thank the aids of Tender Loving Care for the care they provided and the compassion they showed Pat.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name may be made to the Hornell Alumni Association, P.O. Box 135 Hornell, NY 14843 or to the Alfred-Almond Alumni Association, P.O. Box 1134 Alfred, NY 14802 or the Hornell Area Humane Society, 7649 Industrial Park Rd., Hornell, NY 14843

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.

Theresa “Terry” Rucker

Hornell, New York

The earthly journey of Theresa “Terry” Rucker ended on early Wednesday morning (May 7, 2025) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY.

She was the second of four daughters born to the now deceased Margaret and Michael Rubbo.  She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Dr. Maurice Rucker; adoring son, Stephen Dori; sister, Helen Trent; her brothers-in-law, Richard Trent, Frank Dori and Jim Keeley; and her son-in-law, Paul Sorrentino.

Survivors include sisters, Mary Dori and Ann Keely; daughters, Patricia Ann (Steve) Suriano, Yvonne Marie (Rudy) Kulisek, Nadine Bernadette Sorrentino; stepson, Dr. Joseph (Dr. Jane Boyd) Rucker; grandchildren, Daniel Lagana and Jessica (Joseph) Aiello, Alessandra (Andrew) Kozloski, Philip (Kristen Scalese) Suriano and Dr. Christos (Alissa) Suriano, Stephanie (Brad Finklea) Sorrentino; three great-grandsons, Finneus, Scout and River Suriano; nieces, nephews and many earthly angels; and 2 great-grandchildren “On The Way.”

Theresa was Miss Graduate at John Marshall Jr. High School.  At sixteen, she won a contest by writing an essay and interviewed to become a member of the Teen Fashion Council at Marten’s Department Store.  As a high school senior, she was employed by two dentists as a receptionist and dental assistant.

The mother of four, she volunteered at schools, public library and scouting.  She took her children to Broadway shows, museums and provided music and dance lessons.  Terry designed the interior of two homes, was a sales rep at Lord & Taylor in Scarsdale, NY and was a member of Annunciation Church in Crestwood.  She hosted many family holiday dinners and was part of the “Sandwich Generation” (not deli related).

Terry began her college studies at the age of 42 at the School of New Resources, the College of New Rochelle, earning her B.A. and M.S. from the College of New Rochelle.  She then commuted to the Bronx, teaching 8 years at an urban parochial school.  She accepted many administrative duties researching reading programs, representing the principal at meetings and addressing the PTA meetings.  She was also responsible for writing critiques on programs, building & faculty requested by the principal.  Terry introduced students to the library, museum, farm animals and the Long Island Sound on a class trip which was a special treat for inner city children.

Terry and Maurice knew each other since the age of 11 and married many years later, of different faiths.  Their marriage was of great love and respect, observing the Holy Days of both faiths.  It gave much joy to have family & friends to break bread at their table.

Very community minded, Terry served as President of Friends of the Box of Books; advisory board member of the Alfred Library; election inspector; Alleghany County Democratic member and a member of the Zoning Board of Appeals.  She reactivated the Alfred Democratic Club, receiving a letter from Governor Mario Cuomo and spoke with Geraldine Ferraro regarding Italian American Women in present society.  Terry served as vice president of ASC Association of Women, distributed voter information from League of Women voters and obtained permission from Alfred University to have local painters use a studio for five weeks.  She was a member of Wee Playhouse; exhibited large oil paintings and Steuben Bank, College of New Rochelle, Hinkle Library and a New York show in Manhattan for Mary Mount College.  Terry was a member of Fortnightly Book Club, composed a book of poems, “Reflections” and created Baptismal ensembles (a labor of love).  She served one year as a substitute teacher at Alfred-Almond Central School and was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church where she served as a member of the St. Ann’s Choir.

“Love Knows No Distance”

At Terry’s request there will be no prior calling hours.  A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Tuesday (May 13, 2025) at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church with burial in St. Mary’s Cemetery, next to her husband, Maurice.

Terry has requested that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Jude Research Hospital, PO Box 1000. Department 300, Memphis, TN 38148.  Memorial forms will be available at St. Ann’s Church.

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

Hornell, NY / Melbourne, FL

Robert “Bob” Van Lindeman – 93 – of Melbourne, FL, formerly of Hornell died March 21, 2025 in Melbourne.

Born in Hornell on March 11, 1932, he was the son of Karl & Katherine Lindeman.

He was preceded in death by his wife, June Lindeman; his daughter, Linda Lindeman; along with several siblings.

Surviving are 3 sons, William Lindeman, John (Mary) Lindeman and Tom (Hiroko) Lindeman; along with grandchildren, nieces & nephews.

A private graveside service was held Saturday morning (April 26, 2025) at Hope Cemetery in Hornell.

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 / Bayonne, NJ

William “Bill” DeMay – 92 – of 94 River St., Hornell, formerly of Bayonne, NJ, died Saturday morning (April 26, 2025) at his home, following a long illness.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Elmira, New York

Mark D. Rieman – 63 – of 307 Columbia St., Elmira died unexpectedly on Sunday (April 13, 2025) at his home.

Born in Buffalo, NY on June 18, 1961 and was the son of Ronald & Maureen (Daugherty) Rieman.

Mark grew up in Allegany, NY and was a graduate of Allegany Central School (class of 1979) and was an outstanding player on the Allegany Blue Devils Basketball Team.  He later earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from Susquehanna University in 1983.

Upon graduation he resided in Philadelphia, PA for about five years where he sold municipal bonds.  He later resided in Chatham, NJ where he began working for a kitchen & cabinet design company, primarily as a designer & installation specialist.  He has resided in the Elmira area for the past five years.

Mark was an active member of Jehovah Witness Church.  He enjoyed fishing and was a Buffalo Bills Football fan — especially during the Super Bowl years.  He enjoyed life and especially valued his time spent with family & friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald & Maureen Rieman.

Surviving are 3 brothers, Craig (Lori) Rieman, Bruce Rieman and Brian Rieman, all of Machias, NY; 2 nephews, Victor & Parker and former wife Dina of New Jersey.

At Mark’s request there will be no calling hours.  Private services will be held at the convenience of the family.

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

Memorial contributions in Mark’s name may be made to the Center for Disability Rights by visiting www.cdrnys.org

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