Marie J. Johnson, 84

Belmont, NY – Marie J. Johnson, 84, of South Street, passed away on Monday, June 10, 2024, at Highland Park in Wellsville. She was born July 17, 1939, in Genesee, PA, the daughter of the late Harold and Virginia (McCaslin) Blackman. On September 12, 1959, in Belmont, she married Irwin Johnson, who survives. 

Marie was raised in Belmont and graduated from Belmont High School. She continued her education at Doyle Beauty School in Buffalo. She found her career as the owner and operator of Marie’s Beauty Shop in Wellsville. Outside of work she enjoyed crocheting, loved spending time with her family, and was a Buffalo Bills season ticket holder. 

In addition to her husband of 64 years, Irwin, she is survived by: a son, Patrick (Kathleen) Johnson of Belmont; six grandchildren, Amberr (Kenny), Bridgett (Jay), Cristy (Justin), Tad (Andreana), Dylan (Damian), and Emily; eight great-grandchildren, Sean, Jarren, Brooklyn, Naryan, Robbie, Winnie, Melody, and Beau; and great-great-grandson Carter. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by a son, Michael Johnson in 2016. 

A private graveside service and burial will be in Forest Hills Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the Amity Rescue Squad. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Eugene H. “Gene” Allen, age 74

Wellsville, NY - Eugene H. “Gene” Allen, age 74, of the River Road passed away on Friday June 7, 2024th at the Wellsville Manor Care Center. He was born on February 6, 1950 in Wellsville to Edward and Alice [Main] Allen.

Gene was a lifelong resident of this area who graduated from Wellsville High School in 1970. He proudly served in the US Army from 1972 until 1979. He was employed as a truck driver for A.L. Blades in Hornell until his retirement. He was a member and past chief of the Alma Fire Department and was also a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Gene was a loving husband who enjoyed his time in nature particularly fishing and gardening. He treasured time spent with his beloved dogs Midnight and later Bella. He was very social and made everyone he met feel like the most important person he knew. Gene inspired his family to be the best version of themselves.

Gene is survived by his son Cory [Melissa] Allen of Victor as well as a large extended family in which he took great pride, numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces and nephews who he loved dearly.

Gene was predeceased by his parents and a brother Edward Allen as well as a sister Audine “Cookie” Allen.

A service with full military honors will he held on Saturday July 27, 2024 at 1 pm in the Allentown Volunteer Fire Hall on Church Street in Allentown followed by a celebration of his life. Memorials in Gene’s name may be made to the AlmaVolunteer Fire Department, 5778 County Road 18, Alma, NY 14708. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

John F. Schreier Jr., 75

Wellsville, NY – John F. Schreier Jr., 75, of 196 E. Dyke Street passed away on Sunday, June 9, 2024, at home following a brief illness. He was born December 13, 1948, in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of the late John F. and Elizabeth (May) Schreier Sr. 

John was raised in Cleveland and Brighton, MI. While in Michigan, he was a Boy Scout, a member of the Knights of Columbus, and was employed at Work Skills.After moving to Wellsville, he was employed at Piecework Industries. He loved his cat “Honey Boy”, he enjoyed going out for steak and beer, trips to Dunkin’ Donutand fishing. He will be missed by his many friends within the Arc Community.

He is survived by a brother-in-law, David Knox of Wellsville, as well as several nieces and nephews. He was predeceased in addition to his parents by two identicaltwin sisters, Joyce Knox and Jeanne Heffner, a brother-in-law, Kelly Heffner, and a niece and a nephew.

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, June 12, 2024, from 10:00 until 11:00 am. at the J. W. Embser Sons Funeral Home in Wellsville. The funeral will follow at 11:00 am in the funeral home. The burial will be in St. John’s Cemetery, Howell, MI. Please consider memorial donations to The Arc Allegany-Steuben, 240 O’Connor Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Eileen Margaret Drake, 75

Wellsville, NY – Eileen Margaret Drake, 75, of First Avenue, passed away on Friday, June 7, 2024, at Wellsville Manor Care Center. She was born August 2, 1948, in Rochester, NY the daughter of the late Frederic Charles and Rose Ella (Ames) Ambrose. On November 8, 1980, in St. Brendan’s Church of Almond, NY she married Guy Irving Drake, who survives. 

Eileen was raised in Rochester, where she graduated from Our Lady of Mercy High School in 1966. She continued her education at St. James Nursing School, graduating in 1970 as a Registered Nurse. She was then called by her faith to join the cloth and was sent by the church first to Missouri, and later Baltimore, MD. In 1979 she returned to nursing, when she was urged by her best friend Linda Campbell to move to Hornell, and work for St. James Hospital. Linda would also introduce Eileen to her future husband. In 1980, Eileen and Guy married, and Eileen became a homemaker and avid participant in her children’s lives, ensuring their participation in countless activities including story hour at the library, swim lessons, and youth sports. Once her children were independent, she returned to nursing and served Wellsville Central School District as an at-need school nurse. Outside of her employment, she was a lector, eucharistic minister, and the Director of Religious Education at St. Brendan and St. Jude Parish, on the M.S. Walk committee, a boy scout mother (leading her three sons to Eagle Scout) and volunteered at the Hart House until 2020 when she had to retire due to her health. She enjoyed traveling, camping, and her greatest joy was her family.

In addition to her husband of 43 years, Guy, she is survived by: four children, Matthew David (Christine) Drake of Fairport, Michelle Diane Drake of Wellsville, Brian Andrew (Clarissa) Drake of Lima, and Gregory Allen Drake of Wellsville; ten grandchildren, Brisa Drake, Jason Huff-Drake, Adaline Drake, Addison Huff-Drake, Kylie Drake, Mason McKinley, Evan McKinley, Jack Drake, Rory Drake, and Remi Drake; sister, Katherine Ambrose of Rochester; siblings-in-law, Lexi Ambrose of Leeds, AL and Jerry (Kathy) Drake of Almond, as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by an infant son, Eric David Drake in 1982, and brother Richard Ambrose in 2011. 

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, June 15, 2024, from 10 – 11 am at the Immaculate Conception Church of Wellsville, 36 Maple Avenue. A Mass of Christian Burial will follow at 11 am in the church. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, 322 8th Avenue, 16th Floor, New York, NY 10001; or to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 E. State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

James G. Kreydt, 89

Sun City Center, FL – James G. Kreydt, 89, of Fox Hunt Drive, passed away on Sunday, February 18, 2024, at Sun City Hospice Center. He was born July 26, 1934, in Wellsville, the son of the late Arthur and Margaret (Nagle) Kreydt. 

Jim was raised in Wellsville, where he attended Immaculate Conception School. He continued his education, first graduating from St. Jospeh Seminary in 1953. In 1956 he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and then a master’s in classical languages in 1965, both from St. Bonaventure University. He taught English, Latin, and Greek in several public and private schools across New York and Connecticut. In 1976 he moved to New York City where he accepted various editorial positions for entertainment and scientific magazines. In 2004 he retired to Sun City Center, Florida. 

In addition to his soulmate and world-traveling companion of over 35 years, Sheila Houlihan, he is survived by: a niece, Lauren (Michael); a nephew, Christopher (Katia); great-nieces and nephews, Taryn, Liam, Rocco, Ivy and Ziah; as well as several cousins, including Albert and Margaret Kerton of Wellsville. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his sister, Mary Margaret “Peg” Thibdeau(2023), her husband John (2012), and their daughter Suzanne (2018). 

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, at 11:00 am at the Immaculate Conception Church, 36 Maple Avenue in Wellsville, NY. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Wellsville. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Patricia L. “Patt” O’Donnell Mueller, 88

Atlanta, GA - Patricia L. “Patt” O’Donnell Mueller of Atlanta, GA, died peacefully on May 15, 2024, following an extended illness. She was 88.

Patt’s story began on August 16, 1935, in Buffalo, NY, as the first child born to George W. O’Donnell and Miriam E. (Weymouth) O’Donnell. From that moment, there were people, places, and perspectives she treasured throughout her life... Growing up in Buffalo, NY, and later in Wellsville, NY, where she graduated from Wellsville High School. Being selected to sing in WHS’s Madrigals, and loving music throughout her life, especially when it brought her together with friends who loved it, too. Returning to Buffalo to attend Dr. Edward J. Meyer Memorial Hospital’s School of Nursing and earning her Registered Nurse credentials. Caring for others as a nurse for over 40 years. Meeting the love of her life, Henry W. “Butch” Mueller, marrying, and raising their children in Wellsville and later, Atlanta. Hosting parties and gatherings for family and friends, and cooking for days in preparation for them. Believing in her Atlanta Braves, Georgia Bulldogs, and Buffalo Bills regardless of how well their seasons might be going. Worshiping as a United Methodist, valuing great preaching, appreciating beautiful choral performances, and feeling God&’s presence. Vacationing every year for decades at Las Olas Beach Club in Satellite Beach, FL, where she developed long-time friendships and served on the Board of Directors. Volunteering for the Georgia Transplant Foundation with Butch for many years. Moving to Melbourne, FL, and enjoying retirement years with wonderful neighbors and friends until Butch’s passing. MakingChristmas cookies and candy every year with a special friend. Sending and receiving pretty floralarrangements. Getting her hair and nails done regularly. Faithfully watching her favorite daytime dramas and all things Hallmark Channel. Going to lunch and talking on the phone regularly with dear friends and former colleagues. Relaxing in a comfortable recliner...

Most of all, she adored her family. Those who predeceased her include her parents; her husband of 56 years, Henry W. “Butch” Mueller; and beloved siblings Winifred “Winnie” O’Donnell Dincher and John E. “Jack” O’Donnell. Patt is survived by her daughter, Patty Heitmuller, of Atlanta, GA; her son, David Mueller (Janet), of Blairsville, GA; treasured grandchildren, Kristin Mueller (fiancé Jake), of Salida, CO, Ryan Mueller (Emily), of Acworth, GA, and Megan Mueller (fiancé David) of Smyrna, GA; the real star of the show, her great-grandson, Kit Mueller; her sister-in-law, Pauletta Thomas O’Donnell, of Horseheads, NY; as well as O’Donnell and Mueller family nieces and nephews residing in every corner of the US.

A memorial service is planned for June 21, 11:00 a.m., at the Dunwoody United Methodist Church in Dunwoody, GA. A.S. Turner & Sons Funeral Home in Decatur, GA, is entrusted with arrangements. Final interment for both Mr. and Mrs. Mueller will be at Woodlawn Cemetery in Wellsville, NY, with J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home coordinating a graveside service on July 31 at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, Patt’s family requests donations in her memory to Parkinson Voice Project, 646 N Coit Road #2250, Richardson, TX 75080 (parkinsonvoiceproject.org) or Georgia Transplant Foundation, 2201 Macy Drive, Roswell, GA, 30076 (gatransplant.org). To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Stephen R. Allen, 76

Wellsville, NY – Stephen R. Allen, 76, of First Street passed away on Friday, May 31, 2024, at his home. He was born March 2, 1948, in Wellsville to the late Ralph W. and Erma P. (Osmin) Allen.

As a young man, Steve loved to play baseball. He participated in DeMolay, enjoyed learning German, and he was very proud of his job at Newberry’s.  Steve graduated from Wellsville High School in 1966 and went on to a successful career in construction.

Steve served his country in the Army during the Vietnam War from 1971 to 1972. He was honorably discharged as an Ammunitions Specialist and received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. This experience forever changed his life, and his family is proud of, and grateful for, his service.

Steve was married to Mary Elizabeth “Betsy” Graham from 1974 to 1993, and together they created Albros Builders. He taught their daughters that they could do anything, believing they were smart, capable, and competent. He taught them how to play softball, ride bikes, and drive a bulldozer. He instilled a love of travel, foods, and trying new things. Steve and Betsy checked in on each other often in the last few years and made family gatherings easy for their daughters and grandchildren. Steve always encouraged and supported them to have new experiences and enjoyed seeing them grow.

Steve was an excellent gardener and always had a project going. He could do complicated math quickly in his head, loved crossword puzzles, and was an avid sports fan. He loved learning, often shared interesting facts, and was incredibly generous to many people and charities. He will be deeply missed.

He is survived by his daughters, Julie C. Allen (Teresa Love) of Stuttgart, Germany and Maureen (Paul) Hillen of Oaklyn, NJ, and his grandchildren Lucas Dwyer-Allen, and Benjamin, Jackson, and Claire Hillen. He is survived by sisters Marcella (Roger) Culbert of Fillmore, Marilyn Wesche of Florida, and Agnes Allen of Hornell, and brothers Dwight (Gail) Allen of Wellsville, James (Patti Ann) Allen of Cumming, GA, Kevin (Debbie) Allen of Avon, and Gregory (Laura) Allen of Apex, NC.  He also leaves behind many beloved nieces and nephews.

In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother-in-law Martin Wesche, nephews Matthew Culbert and Roger Paul Culbert, and, by just three weeks, his former wife, Betsy Graham.

At his request, no funeral will be held at this time. A celebration of his life is being planned for August 2024. To leave online condolences, please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Joyce S. Wheaton, 88

Wellsville, NY -- Joyce S. Wheaton, 88, of South Drive, passed away on Sunday, June 2, 2024, at Jones Memorial Hospital following a brief illness. She was bornOctober 20, 1935, in Pikeville, NY the daughter of the late Clayton and Ella (Gordon) Greene. On August 6, 1955, in Andover, she married Douglas J. Wheaton who predeceased her in 2003.

Joyce was raised in Pikeville and was a 1953 graduate of Wellsville High School. She was first employed at J.J. Newberry’s, and for Doctor Rockwell. She then began her 40-year career with C. E. Air Preheater Company and retired as aProposal Engineer. She was a charter member of the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corps, a member of the Exchange Club, the Scio Senior Citizens, the Jones Memorial Hospital Evergreen Twig, and TRIAD. She was a Sunday School teacher for the Christian Temple, a volunteer for the Hospital Auxiliary and Meals on Wheels.

She is survived by a daughter, Kimberley Wheaton of Wellsville, a sister, Kathleen (Dennis) Weimer of Fort Myers Beach, FL, two grandchildren, as well as several nieces, nephews, and cousins. In addition to her parents and husband, she was predeceased by a son, James Wheaton; two sisters, Evelyn Folts and Lois Wheaton; and brother, William Greene. 

A Graveside Service and memorial is being planned for a later date. The burial will be in Hallsport Union Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Hart Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895, Jones Memorial Auxiliary, 191 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895, or any charity of the donor’s choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.