Philip Smith, 93

Wellsville, NY – Philip Smith, 93, of Howard Street, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Wellsville Manor. He was born on June 6, 1931, in Rochester, the son of the late Ruth Smith. On December 15, 1953, in Wellsville, he married the love of his life, Julia A. Nesbitt, who predeceased him on December 24, 2021. 

Phil was a life-long “Go getter” and managed through all the hardships life threw his way. He was raised in Corning, living with his grandparents. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. From 1948 – 1952. He served on the U.S.S. Salem for a year, until he was deployed to Korea and fought courageously during the Korean War. After his honorable discharge he was employed by Corning Glass before finding his career with the New York State Troopers, he was stationed in Syracuse, Franklinville, and Wellsville. He climbed the ranks to BCI Investigator, retiring in 1968. He was a life-long member of the NYS Troopers Association, serving as both secretary and president. Outside of his employment he was a member and organist for the Christian and Missionary Alliance Church. Having the gift of gab, he was able to start a conversation with anyone, he enjoyed attending the NYSTA dinners to catch up with old friends, playing piano for nursing homes, baking his famous chocolate chip cookies, making homemade pizza and lasagna, and sharing many stories with his kids, grandkids, and great grandkids. He was a member of the Wellsville American Legion Post 702. 

He is survived by: five children, William (Joan) Smith of Hollywood, FL, Carol Behr of Wellsville, Michael (Marcy) Smith of Wellsville, Laura (Richard) Daniels of Wellsville, and Grace Smith of Wellsville; 10 grandchildren; and 23 great grandchildren. In addition to his mother, and wife of 68 years, he was predeceased by an infant son, Daniel Eugene Smith and a son-in-law, Gerald Behr.

Friends are invited to call on Thursday, November 7, 2024, from 6 pm to 8 pm at the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home of Wellsville, 34 West State Street. His funeral will be Friday, November 8, 2024, at 1 pm in the funeral home, military honors will follow at the conclusion of the service. Burial will be at the family’s convenience in Woodlawn Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, New York 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Rhonda J. Congdon, 75

Wellsville, NY – Rhonda J. Congdon, 75, of North Franklin Street, passed away on Monday, October 28, 2024, at Maple City Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Hornell. She was born September 30, 1949, in Wellsboro, PA, the daughter of the late Elwin and Rosemarie (Knowlton) Kendrick. On June 12, 1971, in Elmira, NY, she married J. Michael Congdon, who predeceased her on January 29, 2010. 

Rhonda was raised in Elmira Heights and graduated from Edison High School. She earned her associate’s degree at Corning Community College. In 1981, she and Michael moved their family to Wellsville. She was active in the community as the Activities Director for Highland Park, additionally, she taught religious education at Immaculate Conception Church. She loved to play the piano, and she and Mike enjoyed camping at Kinzua. 

She is survived by: a daughter, Christine (Todd) Jeffers of Genesee, PA; a son, Timothy (Samantha) Congdon of Allegany; three grandchildren, Trevor (Jessica) Jeffers, Christopher Jeffers, and Michael Congdon; three great-grandchildren, Ava Jeffers, Mason Jeffers, and Michael Congdon Jr.; three sisters, Sharon Brill, LaVonne (Kim) Gilbert, and Vicki (Joe) Hudson; a sister-in-law, Mary Ann (George) Novotny; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, and husband of 38 years, she was predeceased by: a granddaughter, Cassandra Congdon. 

Friends are invited to call on Saturday, November 2, 2024, from 11 am to 1 pm at J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home of Wellsville, 34 West State Street. Her funeral will follow at 1 pm in the funeral home. A private burial will be held in Sacred Heart Cemetery at the family’s convenience. Please consider memorial donations to Immaculate Conception Church, 17 Maple Avenue, Wellsville, NY 14895; or to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Arthur W. Lovel, 95

Wellsville, NY – Arthur W. Lovel, 95, of Rauber Street, passed away on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at St. James Hospital in Hornell. He was born July 20, 1929, in Sabinsville, PA, the son of the late John Edwin Sr. and Viola Etta (Thompson) Lovell. On February 14, 1953, in Harrison Valley, PA, he married Loretta Mae Stone, who predeceased him on May 4, 2018. 

Art was raised in Harrison Valley and was a Harrison Valley High School graduate. From 1951 to 1953 he honorably served with the United States Army, during the Korean War. After his service, he continued his education at St. Bonaventure University, earning his bachelor’s degree in business. He found his career at Air Preheater for 32 years, retiring in 1986. Outside of his employment, he was a previous 50-year member of the Christian Temple, attended the United Methodist Church, and was a recent convert of Catholicism; he was also a member of the Wellsville Lions Club and VFW. With Loretta, he was an avid member of the Family Campers and RVers Organizations, including P.A.L.s, 39ers, and Top the Hill Chapters. He was a life-long history buff and would read any-and-everything to do with War History. 

He is survived by: three children, Connie M. Ramsey of Ocean Isle Beach, NC, Curtis Arthur (Mary Lou) Lovel of Sebastian, FL, and Camille Lynne (Todd) Kenny of Fredericksburg, VA; six grandchildren, Christopher Ramsey, Kimberly (Nat) Wilson, Brian (Miranda) Ramsey, Derek (Stephanie) Lovel, Jordan (Brock) Eveland, Dustin (Emily) Kenny; eight great-grandchildren; cousins, Linda & Nyhl Austin of Wellsville; sister-in-law, Geraldine Wood nee Stone of Kossuth; companion Geraldine Bassney, and her family, of Tioga, PA; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, and wife of 65 years, he was predeceased by: his four siblings, Hazel Witaker, Almyra Lovel, John Lovel Jr., and Mary Barr. 

A Memorial Mass is being planned for Summer 2025. A private family burial will be held in Woodlawn Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to Allegany County Cancer Services, 17 Maple Avenue Box 534, Wellsville, NY 14895; or to the Allegany County Comfort House, 141 East State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

William Andrew Richmond, 88

Lake Wales, FL – William Andrew Richmond, 88, formerly of Allentown, passed away on Sunday, October 13, 2024. He was born August 10, 1936, in Wellsville, the son of the late E.O. and Lulu (Quick) Richmond. He married Dolores Halsey, who survives. 

Bill was raised in Allentown and was a 1953 graduate of Scio High School. From there he went onto Alfred State College, graduating with an associate degree in Mechanical Technology. He volunteered for the draft and was inducted into the Army in October 1955 and served until October 1957. After his honorable discharge he found his career at Air Preheater, first working as Supervisor of Tool Design and Die Makers, being promoted in 1980 to Manager of Maintenance and Facilities. After 41 years, he retired in 1998. Outside of his employment, he was an avid golfer, he and Dolores were members of several country clubs and liked to golf daily. They also enjoyed traveling, drama, and musicals. While living in Allegany County, Bill was a member of the Wellsville Moose Lodge, and the American Legion Post 702. 

In addition to his wife, Dolores, he is survived by: a sister, Elaine Moss of Akron, OH, as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by two siblings, Elsie Gwyneth “Gwyn” Jaquish in 2017, and Paul J. Richmond in 2003. 

Following Bill’s wishes, services are being held until Dolores’ passing. Burial will be in Stannards Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to a charity of your choosing. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Phillip Christman Satterlee, 71

Wellsville, NY – Phillip Christman Satterlee, 71, of Early Street, passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born on March 17, 1953, at Jones Memorial Hospital, the son of the late William D. Satterlee, and the eventual Virginia (Christman) Dean. He married Melinda Peters Booth, who predeceased him in 2019. 

“Philbert” was a long-time resident of Wellsville, graduating from Wellsville High School in 1972. He was first employed by Dresser-Rand Corporation, before finding his career as a technician with the Walchli family in the Oil and Gas Industry, working across the Southern Tier, and from where he would retire. Outside of his employment he was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church of Wellsville. Phil loved his family, the Wellsville community and was a Christian soul. 

He is survived by: two sons, Adam C. Satterlee and Jason M. Satterlee, both of Wellsville; three granddaughters, Morgan Satterlee, Josphine Satterlee, and Ella Satterlee; three grandsons, Brock Satterlee, Beckman Satterlee, and Jackson Satterlee; a brother, William D. Satterlee of Hawaii; as well as several cousins, nieces, and nephews. In addition to his parents, and wife, he was predeceased by: two sisters, Linda Mocejunasand and Gayle Varley Nash; as well as several Aunts and Uncles. 

Friends are invited to call on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 12 noon to 2 pm to the J.W. Embser Sons Funeral Home of Wellsville, 34 West State Street. His funeral will follow at 2 pm in the funeral home with Reverend Dr. Eric Ash Sr. presiding. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial donations to the David A. Howe Library, 155 North Main Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Sharon L. Cummings, 75

Belmont, NY – Sharon L. Cummings, 75, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at Absolut Care of Salamanca. She was born September 27, 1949, in Coudersport, the daughter of the late Clayton and Alice (Buchanan) Toombs. She married Larry Cummings, who predeceased her in 2009. 

Sharon was a graduate of Richburg High School. She continued her education at Alfred State College, earning her associates degree. A long-time resident of Belmont, she resided in Bolivar for the last two years. She was a member of the Belmont American Legion Auxiliary Unit 808. She enjoyed raising horses. 

She is survived by: two son, David Cummings of Englewood, TN, and Dennis (Georgia) Cummings of Belmont; two sisters, Janice (Terry) Sanford of Kingston, TN, and Mary (Ray) Shinebarger of Arkport; two grandchildren, Casey Reynold and Payton Cummings; two sisters-in-law, Doll Toombs of Pennsylvania, and Vickie Cummings of Wellsville; and one brother in law, Terry (Gloria) Cummings of Dansville. In addition to her parents, and husband, she was predeceased by:brother, Terry Toombs; grandson, Matthew Cummings; and granddaughter, Cassie Cummings. 

Following Sharon’s wishes, there are no services being planned at this time. Please consider memorial donations to Allegany County Cancer Services, 17 Maple Avenue, Box 534, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Charlotte H. Zajicek, 86

Belmont, NY – Charlotte H. Zajicek, 86, of Whitney Avenue, passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, in her home with family by her side. She was born January 11, 1938, in New Milford, Connecticut, the daughter of the late Francis Warren and Ethel (Farrington) Hall. On January 4, 1958, in New Milford, she married Joseph C. Zajicek, who survives. 

“Tink” was raised in New Milford and was a New Milford High School graduate. She entered the workforce with Nestle Company while in New Milford. After relocating to Belmont, she owned and operated Hannigan’s Greenhouse with her husband. She was a founding member of the Amity Rescue Squad Auxiliary, and served for many years. 

In addition to her husband of 66 years, Joseph, she is survived by: four sons, Joseph W. (Christy) Zajicek of Wellsville, Robert (Sherry) Zajicek of Cuba, Thomas (Christine) Zajicek of Big Flats, and Donald (Kimberly) Zajicek of Belmont; 12 grandchildren; 13 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by: a daughter, Tammi Linn; a brother, Robert Hall; and five sisters, Ethel Jennings, Frances Yarochowicz, Dorothy Kindilien, Jane Palmer, and Mildred Danabaum. 

Following Tink’s wishes, a private graveside is being planned for a later date. Burial will be in Forest Hills Cemetery next to Tammi Linn. Please consider memorial donations to the Amity Rescue Squad, 5184 State Route 244, Belmont, NY 14813. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Jake C. Mattison, 39

Wellsville, NY – Jake C. Mattison, 39, of 86 Farnum Street passed away on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at the Hart Comfort House with his family at his side. He was born July 19, 1985, in Wellsville, the son of Mark D. and Stacey (Smith) Mattison.

Jake was raised in Wellsville and attended Wellsville High School. He was employed by various businesses throughout the area. He was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 702 and was a social member of the VFW Post 2530. He had an entertaining personality and enjoyed deer hunting and fishing.

He is survived by his father, Mark (Jo Anne Fenske) Mattison, his mother, Stacey Herring, three brothers, Mark Mattison, Wesley (Carla Fanton) Mattison, and Chase (Liz) Mattison, all of Wellsville, as well as several aunts, uncles, cousins, and two fur babies, Bailey and Molly. He will be missed by his many friends in the community, especially a special friend, Katie Harris. He was predeceased by an infant brother, Travis Mattison. 

At Jake’s request, no service is being planned. Please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County or the Comfort House of Allegany County. To leave online condolences, please visit embserfuneralhome.com.

Dan Delos Marsh, 71

Scio, NY -- Dan Delos Marsh, 71, entered into peaceful rest surrounded by family on Saturday, October 19, 2024, following a brief illness. Incidentally the same day his mother-in-law, Joyce Kelly, entered into rest 42 years earlier. Dan was born September 26, 1953, in Wellsville, the son of Donald F. and Ruth S. (Buckhout) Marsh.  

He married Annette Joy Kelly at the Christian Temple on June 21, 1980, by the Rev Peter Moon.  They welcomed their daughter, Kelly Joy, on August 8, 1981.  

He graduated from Wellsville High School in the Class of 1971.  He attended Canisius College in Buffalo, NY.  He transferred to Alfred University.  He graduated from the Police Academy in 1981, becoming a Sworn Police Officer.  He had a life-long love of learning, especially History, and travel.  We were so blessed to have traveled to Hawaii in September 2024.  

He worked as a teenager at Giant Food Mart, thru college.  After college he continued to work at the Giant Food Mart, working his way to Assistant Manager.  He left the Giant in 1978 to work at the Allegany County Sheriff’s Department as a Corrections Officer.  He left the Sheriff’s Department in 1980.  He was employed as a Police Officer in Willing, Whitesville and the Wellsville Police Departments.  He worked for theWellsville Police Department for 28 years part time while operating Medical Transport Service.  

He began the first commercial Ambulance Service in Allegany County, Medical Transport Service, along with his wife, Annette, and his mother, Ruth S. Marsh, on September 1, 1979.  Medical Transport Service was started with one vehicle that was a van converted to an ambulance.  Dan, Annette and a few other people did the calls.  The business was sold to Scott Lanphier on July 1, 2024.  At the time it was sold, MTS has 75 employees and 12 vehicles.

He was a life-time member of the Wellsville Volunteer Ambulance Corp.  He belonged to the United NY Ambulance Network (UNYAN); a founding member of AIM; member and former treasurer of the Southwestern Regional EMS Council; Participated in numerous parades around the county.  He was one of the first members of the Wellsville Rescue Squad.  He joined to play in the Rescue Squad Band playing the trombone as a teenager.  He was a Critical Care Technician.  He became a staunch advocate for the Critical Care Technician at the state and local level. He received the Bureau of Emergency Medical Services and Trauma Systems, 2023 EMS Agency for Recruitment & Retention Innovation award. He coached Kelly’s Town League Summer Softball, supporting the teams without seeking recognition.  He attended every soccer, volleyball and softball game Kelly played, plus band and choir concerts.  He was a Ham Radio Operator.  He was a long time member of the Christian Temple, serving as Treasurer, Sunday School Teacher and Deacon.  When Christian Temple merged with the United Church of Christ, Grace United became our home.  

He is survived by his wife, Annette, their daughter, Kelly of Slingerlands, NY, and his two fur babies, Josie & Shiloh. He is survived by his step mother, Freda Gardiner Kelly of Canisteo. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Jonathan (Robin) Kelly of Scio, and his sisters-in-law, Theresa Hand of Henrietta, and Sharon (Gary) Lamphear, of Dunkirk, NY.  He had especially close relationships with his niece and nephews:  Bob (Jenn) Hand of Dansville; Laura (Quentin Sutton) Hand of Henrietta; Joshua (Melanie) Marsh of Monroeville, PA; Christopher (Julia) Gardiner; Patrick (Magdelena) Gardiner, bonus daughter, Amanda (Jason) Chimics, and granddaughter, Trinity, Other surviving nieces and nephews are:  Jackie (Ed) Shea of Wellsville; Jeremy (Abby) Marsh of Belmont; Kristie (Bruce) Ames; Jodi Lynn (Joe) Hines; Joy (Randy) Brunn; Mathew Abbey; and Bethany (Heather) Abbey. He was blessed with incredibly special great nieces and nephews:  Joshua McFarland, Melanie Sutton, Quentin Broly Sutton, Maggie Tallman, Ethan Hines, and Drew Hines.  Joshua, Melanie and Broly are really our bonus grandchildren.  

He was predeceased by his parents, Don & Ruth; his father- & mother-in-law, Dean L and Joyce Kelly.  His brother, David Marsh, in June 2022. He was also predeceased by his life-long friend, James Cicirello.  

Friends are invited to call on Wednesday, October 23, from 2pm to 4pm and 7pm to 9 pm. at the J. W. Embser Sons Funeral Home, 34 W. State Street in Wellsville. The Funeral will be Thursday, October 24, 2024, at 10 am. at Grace United Church, 289 N. Main Street in Wellsville with the Rev Diane Cox presiding. Interment will follow at Heritage Hill Cemetery in Arkport.  

Annette and Kelly would like to express our deepest thanks to Scott Lanphier, Wendy Frungillo, and the employees of Medical Transport Service for their unwavering support during this difficult time and Home Care & Hospice, especially Melissa Deming.

In lieu of flowers please consider memorial donations to the SPCA Serving Allegany County or the David A. Howe Public Library. To leave online condolences, please visit embserfuneralhome.com. 

Rose A. Winans, 94

Wellsville, NY – Rose A. Winans, 94, of Seneca Street, passed away on Monday, October 14, 2024, at Highland Park. She was born August 4, 1930, in Pennsylvania, the daughter of the late Samuel and Pauline (Frederick) Vansice. In Alma Church she married Louis Winans, who predeceased her. 

Rose was raised in Pennsylvania and moved to Allegany County in the 1950s with her husband Louis. She was employed by Gabriel’s (The Wellsville Motel) as a housekeeper for many years. She was a member of Brookside Wesleyan Church. She loved Halloween, watching television and taking care of her lawn until her health prevented it. 

She is survived by her son, Lewis “Hank” Winans of Wellsville. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by: her father, Samuel Vansice in 1950; mother and step-father, Pauline & William Atkins in 1996 and 1975 respectively; and four brothers-in-law, George, Charles, Jimmy, and Raymond Winans. 

A private graveside service will be held later this week in Stannards Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to a charity of your choice. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.

Stephen Richard Cornelius, 57

Alger, OH – Stephen Richard Cornelius, 57, formerly of Wellsville, passed away on Monday, September 30, 2024, in his home. He was born June 28, 1967, in Wellsville, the son of Edward and Ruth (Sherman) Cornelius. 

Steve was raised in Wellsville and was a 1986 graduate of Wellsville High School. Upongraduation, he enlisted with the United States Navy and served from 1986 to 1994. He was a community minded individual who was very active with the County Line Church of Harod, OH. He enjoyed baking bread and pies for church bake sales, entering his blue-ribbon chili in cooking competitions, and always wanted to help neighbors in need. He loved animals and was affectionately known as The Chicken Man for his 100+ heard of hens.

In addition to his mother, Ruth, he is survived by: seven siblings, Sheryl “Sherry”Lafferty, Roger Cornelius, Terry (Kimberly) Cornelius, Randy Cornelius, Robert (Janett) Cornelius, Ron (Valerie) Cornelius, and Don (Magdalena) Cornelius. He was predeceased by his father. 

Friends are invited to a Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 12 noon, in the Willing Town Hall, 1431 NY-19, Wellsville, NY, with full military honors at that time. Burial will be in Yorks Corners Cemetery. Please consider memorial donations to the funeral expenses, c/o Embser Funeral Home, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com .

Weston B. Rogers, 66

Wellsville, NY – Weston B. Rogers, 66, of Johnson Street, passed away on Thursday, October 3, 2024, at Olean General Hospital. He was born May 15, 1958, in Gowanda, NY, the son of the late Weston H. and Elaine (Carrow) Rogers. 

Wes was a 1977 graduate of Wellsville High School. He worked a multitude of jobs but found his career at Dresser-Rand Corporation in Wellsville. Outside of his employment, he played drums in several local bands and was an avid 49ers fan. He was a member of the Wellsville VFW Post 2530, the Wellsville Moose Lodge 601, and the American Legion Post 702. 

He is survived by his sister, Sylvia (John Hasnay) Rogers of Batavia; two nieces, Christy (Richard) Fleig and Nicole Cook; and a great-nephew, Tanner Cook. 

Friends are invited to a graveside service with military honors on Thursday, October 10, 2024, at 1:30 pm in Woodlawn Cemetery, 276 S. Main Street in Wellsville. A memorial celebration will follow at 2:00 pm at the American Legion Post 702, 23 Jefferson Street in Wellsville. Please consider memorial donations to the American Legion Post 702, or the VFW Post 2530, 250 Maple Avenue, Wellsville, NY 14895. To leave online condolences please visit www.embserfuneralhome.com.