Saturday, January 29, 2022

Dale Robert Angood, 72

Wellsville, NY – Dale Robert Angood, 72, of Trapping Brook Road, passed away on Friday, January 28, 2022 at Highland Park Rehabilitation and Nursing Center. He was born on March 8, 1949 in Coudersport, PA the son of the late Robert L. and Norma June (Franke) Angood. On February 10, 1973 in Scio he married Penny Orvis, who survives.

He was a former resident of Scio, and was a 1967 graduate of Andover High School. In 1968 he enlisted with the United States Army and was deployed to Vietnam. He remained on active duty until 1971 when he joined the reserves and continued to serve until 1974. Upon his honorable discharge, he worked for several local businesses, including: Friendship Dairies, Air Preheater, and later Alfred State College as an Engineer Tech, from which he retired.

He was extremely proud of his time in the Military, enjoyed NASCAR, car shows, and trips to Watkins Glen International Raceway. He would strike up a conversation with anyone at any time, and that is how he made the best of being at Highland Health Care – by making friends with residents and staff alike. His greatest joy was his family.

In addition to his wife of 49 years, Penny, he is survived by: a daughter, Michelle (Brant) Monroe of Wellsville; four sisters, Lynda Lanterman of Olean, Robin (Calvin) Morrison of Wellsville, Cindy (John) Case of Bolivar, and Tammy (Paul) Starr of Baldwinsville; a brother-in-law, Robert Orvis of Wellsville; and several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Dale was predeceased by: a granddaughter, Leigh Angood. 

Friends are invited to call on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 from 12 pm – 2pm to the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Wellsville, 34 West State Street,  with the funeral to follow at 2 pm with Reverend Calvin Densmore presiding. Burial will be in Bath National Cemetery, due to Covid-19 restrictions, the burial will be private. Please consider memorial donations to the American Cancer Society and the SPCA serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Lonny M. Carlin, 81

Friendship, NY—Lonny M. Carlin, 81, of North Branch Road passed away on Thursday, January 27, 2022 unexpectedly at home. He was born on December 2, 1940 in Cuba, the son of the late Merle B. and Leona Bell (Carney) Carlin. On October 2, 1960 in Massena, NY, he married his high school sweetheart, Rita Kirkey, who predeceased him on October 8, 2021

He attended both Friendship and Massena Central Schools. He was employed by his father-in-law as a carpenter for many years. He also worked for Friendship Dairies, Blade’s Construction, and was self-employed as a carpenter and painter. He loved gardening, tractors, mowing, and fishing. 

He is survived by: three daughters, Amber (Dennis) Stocum of Friendship, Michelle (Mike) Stocum of Corning, and Cammi (Robert) Granato of Auburn; a son, Ronny (Karina) Carlin of Friendship; twelve grandchildren, Jared, Shannon, Serena, Ashley, Michael, Quinn, Raychel, Kaiyia, Ronny Jr., Fred, Amanda, Kyle, and Kaleb; forty-one great-grandchildren; one great-great-granddaughter; a special-sister-in-law Geraldine “Cookie” Kirkey of Illinois; a brother, Dale (Jeannine) Carlin of Cuba; a special niece, Michele (Fernando) Garcia of Oceanside, CA; several nieces and nephews; and his beloved beagle, John. 

In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by: a daughter, Kelly Sue Carlin; a brother, Larry Carlin; and a beloved nephew, Kurt Kirkey.

As per Lonny’s request, there will be a private celebration of life. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Friday, January 28, 2022

Bradley Dean Morrison, 68

Andover, NY – Bradley Dean Morrison, 68, of 51 Grove Street, passed away on Wednesday, January 26, 2022 at home following a long illness. He was born September 26, 1953 in Wellsville the son of the late Ronald and Barbara (Jackson) Morrison. On April 3, 1999 in Friendship he married Colleen O’Grady, who survives.

Brad was a 1971 graduate of Scio Central School. Upon graduation, he enlisted with the United States Air Force and served from 1971 to 1976, during his enlistment he was deployed to Turkey during the Vietnam Era. After his honorable discharge, he earned a Bachelors Degree from Minot State College in Minot, ND, and later attended Houghton College. He was formerly employed at True Value, AutoZone, and Michael John’s Convenience Stores in Andover and Hornell.

He was a firearms enthusiast, enjoyed modeling, and Military History, especially WWII. He was formerly a Cub Scouts Leader; and a former member of both The Bible Baptist Church of Friendship and The Alfred Seventh Day Baptist Church of Alfred Station. He was currently a member of a House Church in the Wellsville area.

He is survived by: his wife of twenty-two years, Colleen; three step-children, Kenneth (Amanda) Cottrell of Friendship, Beth (James) Gilbert of Bliss, and Toby (Mandy) Smith of Shinglehouse; seven grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and three siblings, Calvin (Robin) Morrison, Monica Morrison, and Matthew Morrison, all of Wellsville. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by: a sister, Ronda Clark; and a sister-in-law, Wendy Hilliard.

A private memorial is being planned for a later date. Please consider memorial donations to the Andover Volunteer Ambulance Corps. Inc., PO Box 726, Andover, NY 14806. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Betty J. Potter, 91

Wellsville, NY – Betty J. Potter, 91, of Farnum Street, Wellsville, NY, passed away on January 25, 2022, at the Wellsville Manor Care Center, Wellsville, NY. She was born on September 24, 1930, in Hume, NY, the daughter of George and Vanche (Black) Atherton. 

Betty first married Harold D. Marsh, who preceded her in death in February 1982. On April 23, 1983, she married Newell Potter in Greenwood, NY, who preceded her in June 2011. Betty often commented on how lucky she was to have found love twice in her lifetime. 

Betty was raised in Belfast, NY, where she graduated from Belfast Central School. She enjoyed working for the NY Telephone Company as an operator and then as a switchboard operator at Dresser-Rand Company in Wellsville, NY where she retired after 25+ years of service. Betty enjoyed crocheting and was an accomplished seamstress. She could often be seen talking with friends and having coffee at one of Wellsville’s coffee clutches. 

In addition, Betty was predeceased by her parents and her brother, Clifford L. Atherton, of Belfast, NY, her stepdaughter, Donna (Charles) Dixon of Wellsville, and two grandsons, Kevin J. Kocher and Newell Kocher. 

She is survived by her stepdaughter, Mary (Fred) Gates of Fort Royal, Virginia, grandchildren Helen (Joel) Evans of Angelica, NY, Lynn (Connie) Dixon of Wellsville, NY, Lynda (Ron) Bennett of Fort Royal, Virginia, and Jim (Mary) Kocher of Singer Island, Florida, niece Melva (Phil) Rice of Belfast, NY, nephew Kenneth (Patricia) Atherton of Belfast, NY. Betty was also loved and cherished by her many great-grandchildren, great-nieces, great-nephews, and great-great grandchildren. 

As per Betty’s request there will be a private burial in Woodlawn Cemetery will be scheduled later, for this Spring. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps and the SPCA of Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com. 


Thursday, January 27, 2022

Alva Hoffa Robbins II, 78

Wellsville, NY – Alva Hoffa Robbins II, 78, formerly of Odessa, NY, passed away peacefully with his faithful family by his side, in Wellsville, NY on Tuesday, January 25, 2022. 

He was the son of  the late Charles and Virginia (Ross) Robbins, born on March 10, 1943. He is survived by his four children: Amy (Wally) Turner, Mary (Ray) Smith, Alva (Amanda) Robbins, and Nicole (Chris) Bresett. Of all the people he touched, his most proud achievement in life was marrying his wife Cynthia Ann Robbins who supported him in all of his adventures, and shared 46 devoted years with, before she passed. He took extreme pride and love in all of his grandchildren.

Alva was a simple man, who led a simply wonderful life, a life full of family, faith and fond memories. He enjoyed simpler pleasures, the joy of a Sunday afternoon drive, fishing trips to lakes unknown, always taking the scenic route to unspecified destinations, camping adventures to Canada, tending to his garden as he connected with nature and all things wild, or his acute awareness of the importance of life loved with his loved ones over any material possession. His drive was his family and he strove to instill sound values in his children and to better their lives to the end. A man of limited words with a strong facade and a deep love for those that surrounded him throughout his life. A man that lifted you up with a kind word, or a funny joke, a humble ear or the very shoes on his feet. Alva was a beloved husband, father, grandfather and friend, a simple man, yes, but simply a good man, as well.

The love he spread on this earth continues to grow through his children and grandchildren, from this immeasurably loved man. On behalf of Alva and the family we would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to the staff at Jan and Bev’s for the loving, compassionate care that they gave during Dad’s final years of life. Because of the amazing care that he was given, the family has requested that contributions be made in Alva’s name, to Jan and Bev’s Home Care Inc., 102 N Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895, that will directly support the staff that positively impacts the lives of our loved ones everyday.

At Alva’s request, no services will be held. A private burial in his honor along with his wife Cynthia will be held this spring. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Wednesday, January 26, 2022

Linda M. Brundage, 72

Belfast, NY – Linda M. Brundage, 72, of Belfast passed away on Wednesday, January 19, 2022 in her home after a lengthy battle with Pancreatic Cancer. She was born in Binghamton, on November 25, 1949 the daughter of the late Mildred L. Sherwood, and was adopted by her grandparents – Louis T. and Leona (Johnson) Sherwood. 

She was lovingly raised by her grandparents in Hallstead, PA. She was a graduate of Blue Ridge High School of Montrose, PA. Linda excelled in music and track. It was during her high school years that she was a member of the Castlemen Drum and Bugle Corp., whose annual reunions she eagerly attended until Covid but them on hold. Linda moved to Allegany Count to marry her former husband, William Brundage of Wellsville, with whom she had three children. Prior to the birth of her children, she worked in various area nursing homes, then she took several years off to be a stay-at-home wife and mother. 

In 1995 Linda graduated from Alfred State College with a degree in Medical Records. She then went to work for the Allegany County DPW Building and Grounds Department, retiring in 2006. 

Linda enjoyed a full life of adventure. Her hobbies included travel, camping, genealogy, and theater. She was a member of the World & NYS Atlatl Associations, Society for Creative Anachronism, and a forever member of the Players of Allegany County. With each membership, she held many board and administrative positions. She loved animals and never met a unique pet that she didn’t bring home. Her menagerie included: pythons, goats, chickens, one cow, her beloved St. Bernards, and many cats. Among her favorite pastimes, she enjoyed playing practical jokes on unsuspecting family and friends. She delighted in creating haunted houses every Halloween when her children were young, engaging Trick-or-Treaters for a laugh or a quick fright. Although she never believed herself to be artistic, she was in fact a very creative soul who loved sewing, painting, crafts, and writing hilarious short stories about life on her small hobby farm. 

Linda is survived by: her children, Jennifer (Michael) Maisonet of Belmont, Karen (Brian and Deja Newman) Finnemore, and Donald Brundage, both of Wellsville; grandchildren, Elizabeth (Kajun Burdick) Hint, Mackenzie Brundage, Keagan Gerber, SkyAnne Carpenter, Gracey Brundage, and Adam Brudage. She was also blessed with two “Bonus” grandchildren, Richard (Tricia) Neal, and Kitiara Newman, who she lovingly accepted as part of her brood. Her greatest enjoyment came from her five great-grandchildren: Emmett Cole, Norva Cole, Jaelynn Michael, Matthew Michael, and Colson Burdick. Additionally, she is survived by her siblings: Brenda Wolvebr, Trudy Dahm, Cindy Page, June Page, Charles Page, Clayton Page, and James Page; her best friend from childhood, Richard (Jane) Osterhaut of Austin, TX; and many cousins of whom she was very close to. Linda’s children especially want to thank neighbors Paul and Tamee Bartock and Dawn and Sue Patanella for taking such good care of her when her children were unavailable. 

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by: a brother, Ray Pearsall, and her partner of 28 years, Gregory F. Bessette. 

Due to Covid-19, the family has opted to postpone a funeral service until a later date. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA serving Allegany County or to an animal rescue of the donor’s choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Wednesday, January 19, 2022

John F. Lynch, 92

Painted Post, NY - John F. Lynch of Painted Post, NY, passed away on Monday January 17, 2022, in Corning NY.  John was born in Hornell, NY, on August 19, 1929, the son of the late Michael V. and Rose (Manley) Lynch.  In 1956, John married Lucille J. Ludden who predeceased him in 1976.  In 1979, he married Sally Gilbert Lynch, who survives.

John attended Andover Central School and enlisted in the U.S. Army from 1952 to 1954 attaining the rank of SP4.  Upon discharge, Mr. Lynch worked for the gas pipeline industry for Joyce Western Co., Corning National Fuel, Otis Eastern, and other contractors around Western New York.  He owned Lynch and Sons based in Addison NY from 1972 to 1980. He later worked for Lynch Paving in Wellsville, NY. He plowed snow and mowed lawns in the late 1990’s and owned the Pine Tree Motel in Andover form 1983 to 2003.

Mr. Lynch was a member of the American Legion Lynch-Burdette Post 397, of Andover and the Benevolent & Protective Order of Elks Lodge 1495, of Wellsville, NY.  All of Andover enjoyed seeing John during parades in his silver 1963 Buick Riviera. In retirement, he was often seen sitting at the corner in Hilton waving to passing cars and talking with passersby. He was quick to remind everyone that he was the best looking out of all his siblings. 

Surviving, in addition to his wife Sally are two sons, Chris Lynch of Avon and Brian (Sue) Lynch of Verman, CT; three step children, Kim (LaVonne) Gilbert of Elmira, Karen Reed of Corning, and Kevin (Linda) Gilbert of Florida; nine grandchildren, Justin (Danielle) Lynch of Washington State, Amber Lynch of Corning, Megan (Hojo) Hojnoski of Elmira, Tabatha Reed of Corning, Felicia (Luke) Thomas of Greece, Mark Gilbert of Florida, Mike Gilbert of Florida, T. J. (Missy) Miller of Ohio, and Jessica Miller of North Carolina; nine great grandchildren; one brother, Dick Lynch of Florida; and several nieces and nephews.  He was predeceased by his brothers George Lynch and Dan Lynch; four sisters, Margaret Lynch, Jean Lynch, Ceceilia (Bill) Dugan, and Rosemary Lynch; and one grandchild, James Gilbert of Rochester NY.

Friends may call Friday from 7-9 pm, Friday, January 21, 2022,  at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Wellsville. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 22, 2022,  at 10:30 am at the Immaculate Conception Church.  Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Wellsville,  Memorials contributions may be made to the Bampa House in Corning NY.  On-line condolences may be left at www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Donald G. Patrick, 85

Belmont NY - Donald G. Patrick, 85, of Belmont passed away Tuesday, January 18, 2022, at the Wellsville Manor following a brief illness.  Born February 1, 1936, in Short Tract, he was the son of the late William and Pauline (Lee) Patrick.  In 1967, Don met the love of his life, Norilyn Cornell.  Married on July 12, 1969, they were blessed to spend over 52 years as husband and wife.

A 1953 graduate of Belmont Central School, Don worked at East Side Garage from 1953 to 1955 and again from 1958 to 1964. He served in the US Army from 1955 to 1957 as a Specialist 3 working with underground guided missiles at Bell Isle in Michigan.  In 1964, Don went to work at Worthington In Wellsville, NY, retiring in 1999 from the plant then known as Dresser Rand.

Don was active in the local volunteer fire service for decades.  A member of the Belmont Fire Company for over 60 years, Don served as fire chief from 1979 to 1981.  He also served as an Allegany County Fire Investigator from 1982 to 1990.  Most recently he was honored for his years of service during the annual convention of the Southwestern Association of Volunteer Firemen.  He also served two terms on the Amity Town Board.

In addition to his loving wife Norilyn, he is survived by his four daughters and their families, Pamela (Murray) Onnen of Port Charlotte, FL, and children Kory (Amber) Faulkner and Emily Faulkner; Paula (Larry Scott) Patrick of Perry and son Tanner Cudney; Amy (Thomas) Windus of Little Genesee and children Mason (Jessica) Windus of Olean, NY, Maegan Windus of Agawam, MA, and Mackenzie, Maddox, and Maxim Windus of Little Genesee; and April (Paul) Kirk of Mason, MI and children Morgan and Shane Kirk of Mason, MI.  He is also survived by six great grandchildren, Skylar Steyskal, Arlo and Ronan Needham, and Kohner, Aiden, and Logan Faulkner, several nieces and nephews, and his cherished fur baby Crystal.

He was predeceased by his parents; his father and mother-in-law, Alvin and Virginia Cornell; his sisters, Jean Patrick Graham and Naomi Patrick Cline; and a special nephew, Calvin Graham.

Family and friends will be received on Friday, January 21, 2022, at J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, 17 Schuyler Street, Belmont from 5 to 8PM.  A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Saturday, January 22, 2022, at St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church, 3 Merton Street, Belfast at 11 am. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Belmont.  In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Don’s honor can be made to the SPCA Serving Allegany County or to the Belmont Fire Company.  On-line condolences may be made at www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Friday, January 14, 2022

Daniel L. Gleason, 80

Crossville, TN – Daniel L. Gleason, 80, passed away on Monday, January 10, 2022 at Advent Health in Ocala, Florida following a brief illness. He was born in Bolivar, NY on July 31, 1941 the son of the late Burdette and Mary (Kalkhof) Gleason. On September 6, 1962 in Olean he married his wife of 49 years, Patricia Piper, who predeceased him on April 13, 2012. 

 Dan graduated from Wellsville high school in 1959. He was the plant manager for McCulloch Mite-E-Lite in Wellsville until it was sold to Black & Decker. He then founded Employee Services in 1983. The organization began as a program that assisted employees who were struggling with substance abuse to get proper treatment and retain their employment. In 1985, Employee Services was incorporated, increasing services to include assistance for behavioral health, mental health, substance abuse, and financial and legal problems. Under Dan’s leadership, the company grew while helping thousands of employees across the country and into Canada. Today, Employee Services helps tens of thousands of employees each year and is one of the nation's most comprehensive employee assistance programs.

Dan sold Employee Services Inc. and retired in 2001, splitting his time between Crossville, Tennessee and Ocala, Florida. An active athlete who also appreciated the arts. Dan enjoyed hiking, swimming, biking, playing cards with friends and attending plays at the Cumberland County Playhouse. He was also an avid pickle-ball player who loved competition.

He is survived by: a brother, William (Beverly) Gleason; a sister, Jane (Dan) Hartman; a son, Lance (Marlene) Gleason; two grandchildren, Amanda (Brian) Preston and Steven Frungillo Jr.; six great-grandchildren, Serena (Damien) DaHill, Collin, Benjamin, Alexis, Brynn & Lydia Preston; a son-in-law, Steven Frungillo Sr.; and a dear friend, Cara White. In addition to his wife and parents, he was predeceased by: a daughter, Melinda Frungillo; and a sister, Gail. 

Friends are invited to a graveside service on Saturday, January 22, 2022 at 1:00 pm in Woodlawn Cemetery, 276 S. Main Street in Wellsville, NY. A celebration of life is being planned, and will be announced at a later date. Please consider memorial donations to the Allegany Counsel on Alcoholism and Substance Abuse, 3084 Trapping Brook Road, Wellsville, NY 14895 or to the David A. Howe Public Library. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Wednesday, January 12, 2022

David H. Garwood, 71

Wellsville, NY – David H. Garwood, 71, left this Earth into the arms of Jesus on Tuesday, January 4, 2022 at his residence in Wellsville. He was born in Warsaw on Febraury 12, 1950 the son of the late Gerald A. Sr. and Faith (Oliver) Garwood. 

Upon graduating from Wellsville High School in 1968, Dave answered the call of duty witht eh United States Army. He began with his basic training at Fort Dix in New Jersey, and then infantry training school in Fort Benning of Georgia. Once his training was complete he was deployed to Vietnam where he served his tour with the 101st Airborne Division. On his last mission, David was leading point when his squad was ambushed, and during the ensuing firefight he was injured and subsequently evacuated back to the United States where he served out the remainder of his service at Ford Ord in California. Before his Honorable Discharge, he earned several awards including the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Vietnam Campaign Medal with V Device 2 O/S Bars, the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle M16 distinction, the First Calss Gernade, and the Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle M14 distinction. 

Following his military service Dave worked in construction in Pennsylvania with his father, and later returned to his hometown of Wellsville, where he lived out the remainder of his life as a faithful friend to those who knew him, a familiar icon and face to residents around town where he took his daily walks. He will be missed by his family, friends, and many in the community. The family wishes to thank those who have come forward with condolences and their “Dave” stories. 

He is survived by: three brothers, Gerry (Kathleen) Garwood of Goleta, CA, Kevin (Kandra) Garwood of Placerville, CA, and Lon (Ji Young) Garwood of Seoul, South Korea; several nieces and nephews, Buzz (Heather) Garwood, Tom (Yetta) Garwood, Maggie (Chris) Graham, Abby (Aaron) Swaney, Jade (Matt) Monarski, Garrett (Lindsey) Garwood, Sharon (Brian) Robinson, and Jason Garwood; dozens of cousins, grand-nephews, and grand-nieces. He was predeceased by his parents. 

A graveside service in Woodlawn Cemetery is being planned for the Spring with a reception to follow with family, friends, and acquaintances welcome to join and share stories. Details will be announced at a later date. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Philip A. “Sam” Wood, 69

Scio, NY - Philip A. “Sam” Wood, 69, formerly of the Fish Road, passed away on Saturday, January 8, 2022 at the Wellsville Manor Care Center. He was born August 11, 1952 in Olean, the son of  the late Carlton and Isobel (Hurd) Wood. 

Sam was raised in Bolivar. He was formerly employed by Allegany Arc and the Rehabilitation Center in Allegany. He enjoyed camping, watching television, listening to his radio, and watching the local dirt track races. 

He is survived by: his step-mother, Geraldine Wood of Bolivar; three brothers, Dale Wood of Texas, Merle Wood of Colorado, and Bruce (Amy) Wood of Iowa; a sister, Brenda (Roger) Olmstead of Olean; two step-brothers, Jim (Kathy) Smith of Tennessee, and David (Kathi) Smith of New Jersey; three step-sisters, Linda (Skip) Benjamin of Bolivar, Carol Perrin of Florida and Nancy Borrino of Webster; a special adoptive family, Frank White, Linda Jones, along with Frank’s children Tracy Beckman, Crissy (Eric Spangenberg) White, and Frank (April) White, and his caregiver, Ashley Prince. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by: a step brother, Tom Smith; and a special friend, Dawn White.

A celebration of life is being planned for at a later date. Burial will be in Maplelawn Cemetery in Bolivar. Please consider memorial donations to the Allegany–Steuben Arc. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Ronald P. Conley, 47

Scio, NY – Ronald P. Conley, 47, of Snowball Hollow Road, passed away on Friday, January 7, 2022 at Strong Memorial Hospital. He was born in Hornell on January 21, 1974 the son of Gerrald Sr. and Linda Conley.

Ron grew up in Hornell and was a 22-year employee of Saputo Dairys in Friendship who was000 part of the local Teamsters Union. He had a great sense of humor, loving to pull pranks on his friends (especially at work) and getting a raise out of anyone. He was an avid Vikings fan, but enjoyed watching sports on both the Pro and College levels, even making bets with his friends. He was an outdoors-man who fished, but also particularly cared for bird watching and trying to out-smart the bears and squirrels. 

He is survived by: his fiance, Tessie Keller of Scio; two daughters, Alexis and Destiny Conley, both of Wellsville; his mother, of Scio; Tessie’s children, Tabitha Bledsoe, Andrew Bledsoe and Brian Green; three brothers, Kenneth (Jeanie) Conley of Pennsylvania, William (Beth) Conley of Friendship, and Tim (Emmy) Conley of Hornell; three sisters, Mary (Mike Buchholz) Slater of Rexville, Sharlene Conley of Rexville, and Jennifer Conley of Hornell; a sister-in-law, Robin Henry Conley of Arkport; many aunts, uncles, and cousins; several nieces and nephews, including Makenna Fanton and Alexa Carl; and Tonka, his constant, four-legged companion. He was predeceased by: his father, Gerrald; and a brother, Gerrald “Skip” Conley Jr. 

Friends are invited to call on Friday, January 14, 2022 from 6 – 8 pm in the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, 34 West State Street, Wellsville. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA serving Allegany County. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Monday, January 10, 2022

Michael “Kevin” Young, 63

Belmont – Michael “Kevin” Young, 63, of Milton Street, passed away on January 9, 2022 at Absolute Care in Houghton. He was born in Wellsville, on July 2, 1958 the son of Leon and Helen (Howden) Young. On October 19, 1996 in Belmont he married his wife of 25 years, Frances Griswood.

Kevin was a long-time resident of Belmont who graduated from Belmont Central High School. He worked for Jack Winterhalter at Laidlaw’s and helped on Jack’s farm. Kevin later went to work for the Village of Belmont as the sewer plant operator. In his younger years he spent a great deal of time on Amity Lake. He loved to fish there and worked with his Dad on many projects for Cliff Button. He was a long time active member of the Belmont Fire Department, and was a social member of the Belmont American Legion Post 808 where he could be found cooking chicken BBQs. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and took several out-of-state hunting trips. Kevin will be remembered for his love of his grand and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by, in addition to his wife Fran: his mother, Helen; a daughter, Cass (Jason) Stone of Angelica; a step-daughter, Jennifer White of Belmont; six grandchildren, Mya White, Jordan White-Phipps, Madolyn Young, Carsen White-Phipps, Scarlett Stone, Jaxson White-Bartholomew; a great-grandson, Grayson Cline; two brothers, Dennis (Kristine) Young of Belmont, and Randy (Carrie) Young of Arizona; and several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Leon, in 1996.


Friends are invited to call on Thursday, January 13, 2022 from 2 - 4 PM in the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Belmont, 17 Schuyler Street. His funeral will follow at 4 PM with Reverend Stephen Crowell presiding. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Spring. Please consider memorial donations to Allegany Cancer Services, Amity Rescue Squad, or the Belmont Fire Department. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Patricia Louise Elliott, 88

Alfred, NY - Patricia Louise Elliott, age 88, formerly of Ithaca, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 6, 2022 at Highland Park rehabilitation in Wellsville, NY.  Pat was born October 12, 1933 in Elizabeth, NJ to the late Luther and Lydia Turner.  Pat was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years Charles E. Elliott, her stepmother Ruth Turner, sister Karen Adornetto, and her brother William B. Turner

Pat married Charles in September of 1955, and she was a devoted wife and mother to her family.  She worked a variety of jobs after graduating from Juniata College with a degree in chemistry culminating in her work at Cornell University’s Molecular Biology and Genetics lab as a lab technician. 

Pat had an adventurous spirit.  She was a spelunker in college, traveled to India with her young family in the 60s and took flight lessons before her youngest son was born. Never one to be idle, she loved to garden, often harvesting and canning the fruits of her labor, baking amazing desserts, knitting Icelandic sweaters and reading, she even tried down hill skiing after her final child.  Every year she looked forward to planting her garden at the Cornell gardens and eventually served on the garden committee for several years. She also loved to raise exotic orchids.

She is survived by her children; daughter Katy and sons Chas (Carol) Elliott of Alfred Station, NY, Bill (Holly) Elliott of Graham WA and John (Beth) Elliott of Warrenton, VA.; her sister Ellen Nolan and, 7 grandchildren, 3 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Her family will hold a private celebration of life at a later date. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.


Tuesday, January 4, 2022

Thea Marie Ackerman, 68

Wellsville, NY - Thea Marie Ackerman, 68, of 145 East Genesee Street, passed away on Tuesday, December 28, 2021 at Jones Memorial Hospital with her husband and pastor at her side. She was born March 2, 1953 in Hornell, the daughter of Melvin D. and Rose Marie (Skillman) Hubbard. On February 14, 1976 in Wellsville, she married her husband of 45 years, Charles Edward Ackerman, who survives.

Thea was raised in Scio and was a 1971 graduate of Scio Central School. She was also a graduate of CCBI in Syracuse, and the Elohim Bible Institute in Castile. As a teenager, she was employed as a secretary for Youth for Christ. She would later be employed by Robeson Cutlery in Perry, Jones Memorial Hospital as a secretary for 24 years, and Allegany Arc as a secretary for 11 years, retiring in 2015. She was a member of the Crosstown Alliance Church, (previously Christian Missionary Alliance), a member of the Jones Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, Mulberry Twig. She was a very loving and compassionate person who spent her time caring for others. Her memory will continue in the hearts of all who loved her.

In addition to Charles, she is survived by: a sister, Marlee Rose (Tony) Conti of Las Vegas, NV; two nephews, Scott and Thomas Young; and a large extended family on her mother’s side.

Friends are invited to call on Friday, January 14, 2022 from 11:00 am – 1:00 pm at the Crosstown Alliance Church in Wellsville. The funeral will follow at 1:00 pm in church with Pastor Jon Schink presiding. Burial will be in Whitesville Rural Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Crosstown Alliance Church, 450 N. Highland Avenue, Wellsville, NY 14895 To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com. 

David Lyn Davis, 63

July 4, 1958-January 1, 2022

Wellsville, NY - What can one say about Dave Davis? Words seem inadequate to express just how much this man was loved, respected, admired, and adored. If you were to ask anyone who knew him, you would have to say that one way or the other, you’d know just where you stood with him. He was always an honest man and would never hold back from what he thought was right, whether in a conversation or a business deal, Dave Davis was always a straight shooter. A man with a keen sense of justice, family, and love of country, to all those who knew him, no better example of the value of hard work, fierce dedication, and unshakable loyalty could be found. Dave was always rock solid, there for you when you needed him, and if he couldn’t fix it, then it couldn’t be fixed. He improved everything he touched, leaving everything the better in his wake. From broken engines to broken hearts, there is nothing that man could not set right. The only thing he can’t mend is just how much he will be loved and missed by his family and friends.

Born in Wellsboro, PA to Walter and Dorothy (Baker) Davis, he grew up in Whitesville, NY and graduated from Whitesville Central School in 1977. Even as a young man, he worked hard at farm jobs, and found a life-long passion for cars, engines, and anything that runs fast. A man with a remarkable gift for moving parts and a healthy love of the kind of American freedom that roars under the hood of a car, he could tell you what the matter was with an engine by just listening to the sound of it. Also an ambitious young entrepreneur, he started his first business in 1982, with Dave’s Gun Shop, which he built with his own two hands and ran out of his first home. He married Debra McCutcheon (Brian) Reed on April 28, 1979 and raised a family and two children, Devin Davis and Donny (Nancy) Davis. He was employed at Whitesville Wood Products where he made many friends and worked tirelessly, until he ventured out on his own to start a second business, Dave’s Auto Center, in 1988. He was also the president of the Whitesville Rod and Gun Club and a member of the Whitesville Volunteer Fire Company. An avid hunter, fisherman, snowmobile rider, and good time friend to all, he had an infectious smile and laugh. He made a living just as he lived the entirety of his days: on his own terms.

Later, he met and married Mary Angela McNeill, on May 9, 1998, and had three children, Bryce Davis, Ellie (Aidan) Perry, and Jack Davis. During this time, he worked other jobs in addition to his gun shop and Dave’s Auto Center, at Kleiser Ford and Pfuntner’s Auto Center, both of Wellsville, and finally for Howard’s Kubota, in Coudersport, PA. Perhaps most memorably, he went on to create a third prosperous business in Back River Raceway, in Willing, NY. For over a decade, he labored in love at the BRR, making memories for all of the racers,

young and old, who loved and returned each weekend to be with their BRR Family. Devoted friends and co-workers marveled at just how hard Dave worked to keep up the race track, and it gave joy and a place to call home to too many people to count. To those of you who are a part of the BRR family, no words can express how much Dave was loved and will be missed in equal parts.

Dave is predeceased by his two fathers, Walter L. Davis and Ronald “Jack” Lewis. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy B. Lewis, his wife and children, his sister, Mary (William) Mangalaw, his brother Dan Davis, and five grandchildren: Carla Crampton, Aidan Meehan, Tristan Meehan, Dylan (Katelynn) Robinson, and Leanna (Jon) Moon, and two great-grandchildren, Fletcher and Athena Moon. Rest in peace, Dave. You were a wonderful father, grandfather, husband, brother, son, and friend. Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand.


A celebration of life is being planned for Saturday, July 2, 2022, with the time and location to be announced. Please consider memorial donations to the Willing Volunteer Fire Department or the Hart Comfort House. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.