Shepard Brothers Funeral Home Obituaries

About Shepard Brothers Funeral Home

Located at 2275 George Urban Blvd., Depew, NY, 14043, Shepard Brothers Funeral Home has been a trusted and compassionate provider of funeral services to the local community for many years. With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, this family-owned funeral home has built a reputation for delivering personalized and dignified funeral arrangements that cater to the unique needs of each family they serve.

A Legacy of Compassionate Care

Shepard Brothers Funeral Home has been serving the Depew community for generations, earning a reputation for their unwavering commitment to providing compassionate care and support during life's most difficult moments. Their experienced team of funeral professionals understands the importance of honoring the memory of loved ones with dignity and respect, and they strive to create meaningful and memorable funeral experiences that celebrate the lives of those who have passed.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Georgina R. Lindner - February 03, 1934 - April 04, 2024

Departed: 04/04/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: LINDNER, Georgina R. (nee Andrews) “Ginger” April 4, 2024. Beloved wife of the late Donald; dear mother of Sandy (David) Klingensmith, and Victoria (late Michael) Busch; loving G.G. of five grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren; sister of the late Irene (late Glenn) Allen; also survived by nieces and nephews.

Ginger was born February 3rd, 1934, was affectionately known around town as the military care package lady.

In her early years, Ginger was quite the roller-skating phenomenon with her jewel encrusted skates and her roller derby friends. She also had a serious side as evidenced when she learned to fly small planes with the Civil Air Patrol. She helped with air and ground searches when needed.

Ginger’s love and respect of our nations’ military and veterans was a life long passion that started at the age of 16. She served 16 years as a past president of the Clarence American Legion Auxiliary, post 838 where she continued her passion to support our troops. It was then that she developed the idea of sending care packages to the military. She, along with several Auxiliary ladies sent over 6,000 care packages during that time.

As a long time, resident of Clarence, Ginger was always doing something. She was involved in community organizations such as Clarence Lions Club (alongside her husband), Clarence Hollow Association, and the Clarence American Legion Auxiliary and a contributor to the Blue Star mothers. She was a 50 plus year member of the Clarence Presbyterian Church and a cancer survivor who worked with the Relay for Life. Ginger really enjoyed her time as the deputy Tax Receiver for the town until she retired.

Friends and family will be received on Wednesday, April 10th at Clarence Presbyterian Church at 9675 Main St., Clarence from 4-7 PM.

Interment will be at the Clarence Fillmore Cemetery alongside her beloved husband. Her memorial service will be held at the Clarence Presbyterian Church on Thursday, April 11th at 10:30 AM. Flowers gratefully declined. Memorials may be sent to Clarence Citizens for Veterans or the Clarence Presbyterian Church building fund. Online condolences at www.shepardbrosfuneral.com

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Elmer J. Bittlinger Jr. - February 24, 1944 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: Bittlinger, Elmer J., Jr. “Spike” March 22, 2024. Age 80. Husband of the late Mary Ellen (nee Potoczak); brother of Mary (George) Esack and the late Peter Bittlinger. Spike was a retired Erie County Sheriff’s Deputy. Private services were held at the convenience of the family. Condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Bart F. Dolce - November 11, 1944 - March 16, 2024

Departed: 03/16/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: Dolce, Bart F. November 1, 1944 – March 16, 2024 Of Clarence Center, Beloved husband of the late Marilyn (nee Stawarz); dear father of Nichole Macaluso (Eddie Burkhardt), Paul (Karen) Dolce and Phillip Dolce (Larissa Nowaczyk); loving grandfather of Genevieve, Filippo, Paul Jr., Gabriel, Logan, Colton, Julianna and David; and great-grandson Giovanni; brother of Nina (late Dick) McVay, Ann Dillon and the late Ida (late Frank) Szykowny; also survived by nieces, nephews and his beloved friend Ruth Boch. Private services to be held at the convenience of the family. Please share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Madonna L. Mayo - July 28, 1948 - February 17, 2024

Departed: 02/17/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: MAYO, Madonna L. (nee Dirschberger) February 17, 2024. Dear mother of Stephen (Denise) Pacitti; loving grandma of Alex, Lauren, Joey, Stephen, and Frankie; dear sister of Connie Dirschberger, Jim Dirschberger, Becky Biggs, the late Larry Anger, and Eugene Dirschberger; also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation Wednesday 2-6 PM at Fieldstone Church (formerly Shepard Bros. Funeral Home) at 10690 Main St., Clarence, where a service will take place at 5 PM. Burial Thursday 9 AM. Please assemble at Fieldstone church. Madonna was loved by many and will be greatly missed. Online condolences at www.shepardbrosfuneralhome.com

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James Marciniak - December 03, 1959 - January 15, 2024

Departed: 01/15/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: James Marciniak, January 15, 2024-

Son of the late Mildred (nee Kwasnieski) and Anthony; Loving brother of Anthony and the late Kenneth; Cherished nephew of Adele Massaro and loving uncle of Elizabeth Rose Marciniak. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Peace Church, 10950 Main St. Clarence, Saturday January 27th, 10AM, with a reception to follow in the parish hall. No prior visitation.

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Anna Toliano - August 08, 1940 - January 14, 2024

Departed: 01/14/2024 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: Anna Toliano (nee Ielasi), 83, of Clarence, NY passed away at her residence on Sunday, January 14, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Born in Plati, Reggio Calabria, Italy she was the daughter of the late Andrei and Serafina (nee Agresta) Ielasi and stepdaughter of the late Giuseppe Perri. Anna was raised and educated in Italy and in 1956 at the age of 16 immigrated to Canada with her family and settled in Hamilton, Ontario. In Canada she learned English and worked to help her family. Several years later she met her husband Dominic, moved to Niagara Falls, NY and started a family. Anna was employed by the Niagara Falls City School District and worked in the kitchen for over 25 years, a job she loved where she fed kids every day. She was an amazing cook and baker. Anna was a devout Catholic and a longtime member of St. Joseph’s parish in Niagara Falls. She was the kindest soul with an enormous heart and will be dearly missed by all who loved her. Her priorities were her family and her pride and joy were her

grandchildren. In addition to her husband Dominic, Anna is survived by her children, Don Toliano and Annette (Keith) Seitz, six grandchildren, Olivia, Alexus, Marcus, Nico, Matteo and Isabella Three brothers, Dominic Perri, Frank Perri and Giuseppe (Julie) Perri; as well as nephews and cousins in Niagara Falls, Canada, Italy and

Australia. Memorial offerings may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

A Mass of Christian Burial will take place on Saturday January, 20th at 10:30AM at Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church, 4375 Harris Hill Rd., Williamsville. No Prior Visitation.

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Patricia A. Londos - June 07, 1966 - December 11, 2023

Departed: 12/11/2023 (Depew)

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Linda M. Lucas - May 20, 1948 - December 09, 2023

Departed: 12/09/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: Lucas, Linda M. (nee Roneker) December 9, 2023

Linda May Lucas (nee Roneker), age 75, of Cheektowaga passed on Saturday December 9th, 2023. She was the loving wife of Roger S. Lucas; step-mother of Chris Ann Lucas Hellerman, Sherry Lyn Lucas Wyntjes, Beth May Lucas Harriger, Dean Paul (Donna) Lucas, and Roy Daniel (Laura) Henley. Also survived by many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and several in-laws; predeceased by some in-laws.

Lin (Suz) was born in Lockport, NY on May 20,1948, the third daughter to George Benard Roneker and Harriet Margaret Heroy. Her sisters Jean (Butch) Doane and Joanne Helen (Larry) LoParco predeceased her.

She was a graduate of Clarence High School (1966). From there she went on to Bryant & Stratton for secretary learning. She worked as a civil employee in Germany for a short time. She had also worked for a number of law firms, the Clarence Chamber of Commerce, and was a customer service representative for Allstate Insurance Company. As a Christian she held a number of positions on various Church Boards and was a member in Choirs. Visitation will take place Friday Dec.15, 4-7 PM at the former SHEPARD BROS FUNERAL HOME (Fieldstone Church) 10690 Main St, Clarence, NY 14031, where a service will be held at 7PM. Burial will take place at Clarence Fillmore Cemetery Saturday at 10AM. Online condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Mary Y. Stahley - November 09, 1921 - November 16, 2023

Departed: 11/16/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: STAHLEY, MARY Y. (nee Alves) November 9, 1921 - November 16, 2023 Devoted wife of the late Raymond; dear mother of Anne (Mark) Lichtenstein, and Katherine (Richard) Smith; loving grandmother of Michael, Jessica, Natalie (Josh) Polito, and great-grandmother to Sam and Ben. Memorial Service at Clarence Presbyterian Church, 9675 Main St. Clarence, Saturday December 2nd at 11 AM. Mary enchanted everyone who crossed her path by sharing a lifetime of compelling stories and being interested in everything and everyone. Imagine a community of friends and family who thinks 102 years was not enough? Flowers gratefully declined, donations may be made to Clarence Presbyterian Church. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com.

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Janice R. Hartwig - February 15, 1932 - September 17, 2023

Departed: 09/17/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: HARTWIG - Janice R. (nee Donner) September 17, 2023; of Clarence Center, NY; beloved wife of the late Arthur Hartwig; dear mother of Susan (Gary) Kirkey, Gregory Hartwig (Margaret Georger) and Elizabeth (Brian) Kreutzer; loving grandmother of William, Michael, Peter, Daniel (Ashley) Kirkey, Catherine (Casey) Diederich, Maura, and Zachary Hartwig; great-grandmother of 4; cherished sister of Leona Allan; sister- in-law of Ora Ganschow and Barbara Hartwig, late Herman Hartwig, late Ella Kart, late Albert Hartwig, late Helen Thering, late Clara Weber and late Harold Hartwig; also survived by nieces and nephews. Friends received Monday, September 25th, 4-8 PM at SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 2275 George Urban Blvd., Depew (same location as Pacer Funeral Home, Inc.). Funeral Service will be Tuesday, September 26th, 11 AM at St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, 875 Eggert Drive, N. Tonawanda, NY 14120. Please assemble at church. Memorials may be made to the church, Clarence Center Fire Company or Hospice Buffalo Inc. Please share online condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Kenneth M. Tramposch - August 27, 1953 - September 16, 2023

Departed: 09/16/2023 (Depew)

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David C. Wutz - September 06, 1956 - September 05, 2023

Departed: 09/05/2023 (Depew)

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Gerald J. Edbauer - June 04, 1947 - September 02, 2023

Departed: 09/02/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: EDBAUER - Gerald J. September 2, 2023; of Clarence NY; husband of Barbara (nee Kader) Edbauer; beloved father of Nicholas (Stephanie) Edbauer, Ashlee (Dave) Edbauer, Lindsey (Peter) Gruenthaner and the late Jason Edbauer. Proud papa of Adrianna, Graycee, Brayden, Brielle, Camilla, Jacob and Gabryelle. Gerald was a Vietnam veteran and owned and operated G.J. Edbauer Inc. for over 35 years. He was an avid golfer and will be remembered fondly by friends and family for his sense of humor and larger than life presence and personality. Private services will be held. Online condolences at www.shepardbrosfuneralhome.com

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Mary J. Hausherr - December 03, 1934 - August 13, 2023

Departed: 08/13/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: HAUSHERR - Mary J. (nee Wolfe) Passed away surrounded by family and friends August 13, 2023 at age 88. Wife of the late Thomas A. Hausherr; mother of Amy S. (Scott) Wisner, Sarah B. Hausherr, and Daniel T. Hausherr; proud grandmother of Kai S. Wisner and Taryn A. Wisner; daughter of the late Richard Neal and Hazel May Wolfe; sister of the late Peter J. (F. Elaine) Wolfe. Family will receive friends at a reception that will take place on Saturday Aug. 19th from 1-4 PM at Coventry Hall at Canterbury Woods, 705 Renaissance Dr., Williamsville. Mary was a longtime resident at Canterbury Woods. She was an avid traveler, enjoying 54 cruises. She enjoyed supporting her children and grandchildren at swim meets. Mary was a member of Trap and Field Country Club, Bowmansville Garden Club, Breast Cancer Network, Sacred Heart Altar and Rosary Society and was in the Clarence Book Review. Please share online condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Jon E. Rothenmeyer - January 23, 1948 - August 08, 2023

Departed: 08/08/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: ROTHENMEYER - Jon Edwin After a courageous and several months long battle with pancreatic cancer, Jon passed peacefully on August 8, 2023. He was 75 years of age. A lifelong resident of Clarence, NY, Jon was born in Buffalo Children’s Hospital on January 23, 1948. He was the first-born son of Herbert (“Bill”) Rothenmeyer and Beth Lenore (nee Weinauge) Rothenmeyer. Jon attended the former Parker Elementary School thru the 6th grade and graduated from Clarence High School, Class of 1966. After a two year term at Erie Community College, Jon completed his studies at Rochester Institute of Technology, graduating in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree. He also attended the former Cincinnati (OH) Bible Seminary for a term where he made several lifelong friends. Jon joined the family’s Clarence business, the H.R. Rothenmeyer Co. hardware store which was locally famous until that business closed in the late 1970’s. He then pursued a career at Columbus McKinnon Corporation at its original Tonawanda, NY office. After that, he was employed for more than 20 years at the former American Allsafe Company in Tonawanda in customer service and inside sales positions. Jon was very civic minded and was a member of the Clarence Jaycees for many years, holding several officer posts. He served in recent years in the Clarence Hollow Association, the Board of Clarence Fillmore Cemetery, and as an election inspector and Republican Party committeeman. He was a trustee of the Clarence Historical Society. Jon was passionate about politics and was a student of political history. He avidly collected campaign material, especially liking US Presidential and Congressional races. He also sought out Canadian political memorabilia from nearby Ontario. Another of Jon’s Interests was that of railroad history: trains and travel, of the railway station and railroad photography. He was a member since 1977 of the Buffalo Chapter, National Railway Historical Society (today renamed Niagara Frontier Chapter). He also was an active member of the Railroad Station Historical Society. Jon loved travel to urban centers large and small including New York City, Washington DC and overseas he visited London, England and Paris, France. In all of these places he sought out historic architecture and railway stations and was an expert photographer of the urban scene. Jon is survived by his brother, William (“Bill”) Rothenmeyer, and sister-inlaw Barbara Rothenmeyer, nephews Mark (Amy) Rothenmeyer and Kent Rothenmeyer, three great-nieces: Kaylee, Layla and Makenna, and several cousins. His dozens of close friends and colleagues in his church, railroad historical groups, political memorabilia collector group and many good neighbors of his beloved Clarence will greatly miss him. His warm, kind soul has been stilled but he will always remain in our hearts. Visiting hours will be held today Thursday from 4-6 PM at Fieldstone Church, the former Shepard Bros Funeral Home at 10690 Main St., Clarence. A celebration of Jon’s life will be held at the Church of Christ, 5375 Old Goodrich Road, Clarence Center, NY on Friday at 11 AM. Jon will have a final resting place in Clarence Fillmore Cemetery. Flowers are gratefully declined. Memorial, if desired, to the Clarence Church of Christ. Online condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Eleanor M. Wawrzynski - September 15, 1937 - August 05, 2023

Departed: 08/05/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview:

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Diane Jaramillo - March 31, 1942 - July 12, 2023

Departed: 07/12/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: JARAMILLO - Diane (nee Szabla) July 12, 2023. Beloved wife of the  late Edgar; loving mother of Alicia (Vincent Hammer) Jaramillo and Nicole Bermingham; adored grandma of Isabela, Markus, and Lukas; sister of the late Corrine (late Leo) Kliszak. Also survived by a niece and nephew. Mass of Christian Burial at Our Lady of Peace Church, 10950 Main St. Clarence, Monday 9:30AM. No prior visitation. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Sharon E. Larkin - October 17, 1929 - July 12, 2023

Departed: 07/12/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: LARKIN - Sharon E. (nee Swain) July 12, 2023. Longtime resident of Clarence, age 93. Beloved wife of the late Robert H. Larkin; dear mother of Douglas (Sandra) Larkin, and Judith (David) Kautz; loving grandmother of Melissa (Michael) Messana, Sara Larkin, Branden (Nicholas) Kania, Christopher (Megan), Dr. Jason, and Kellyn Kautz; great grandmother of Lt. Douglas Urban, Army, Katarina, Logan, Robert, Samson and Valorie Kautz. Visitation Friday 5-8PM at the SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 2275 George Urban Blvd., Depew, (same location as Pacer Funeral Home). Funeral Services Saturday 10AM at Clarence Presbyterian Church, 9675 Main St., Clarence. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Donna Marie Schuler - January 30, 1941 - July 11, 2023

Departed: 07/11/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: SCHULER - Donna Marie July 11, 2023. Loving mother of Jerome (Lyn), Barbara (Bob) Weber, Paul, Kimberly (Tom) Draves, Gregory (Lara), Deborah (Bill) Lerner, and Michael (Becky) Schuler; Adored Grammie of 16 and 3 great-grandchildren; sister of the late Jerome (Geraldine) Kujawa. Private services were held by the family. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Joan S. Huebert - October 15, 1939 - July 03, 2023

Departed: 07/03/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: HUEBERT - Joan S. (nee Campbell) July 3, 2023. Beloved wife of the late Robert; dear mother of Jody (Larry) Hamm and Kenneth Huebert; loving grandmother of five and greatgrandmother of 13; cherished sister of Donald (Deborah) Campbell, and the late Gene, Theresa Troyer, Corrine Faulker and Curtis Campbell. Also survived by nieces and nephews. Visitation Saturday July 15, 10-12PM at the former SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME (Fieldstone Church), 10690 Main St., Clarence, where a service will follow at 12 noon. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Amy M. Dickinson - September 12, 1972 - June 17, 2023

Departed: 06/17/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: DICKINSON, Amy M. after a courageous battle with cancer, June 17, 2023 of Clarence, NY at age 50. Beloved mother of Kyla and Olivia Dickinson; loving Nana of Laila; dearest daughter of Robert and Judy (nee Hake) Dickinson; dear sister of Stephen (Tracey) Dickinson. A Celebration of Amy's life will take place at Clarence Center United Methodist Church, 9750 Clarence Center, NY, Wednesday, June 21 at 11:00 AM. No prior visitation. Memorial donations may be made in Amy's name to Clarence Center United Methodist Church or Hospice Buffalo, Inc. Please share your condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Maurice D. Ackerman - September 13, 1940 - June 01, 2023

Departed: 06/01/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: ACKERMAN - Maurice D. June 1, 2023. Dear father of Maurice M.; adored grandpa of Alex and Michael; son of the late Mary and Donald Ackerman; brother of Raymond, Charlotte, and the late Dolores, Norma, Eddie, June, and Donny. Also survived by many nieces and nephews. Maurice served in the National Guard during the Vietnam Era. Private services will be held by the family. Share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Sandra Jean Warner - November 04, 1942 - May 31, 2023

Departed: 05/31/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: WARNER - Sandra Jean 80, of Clarence, passed away on May 31, 2023. She was born on November 4, 1942 in Pittsburgh to the late Dorothy and Charles K. Hertrick. Predeceased by her husband Paul L. Warner, she is survived by her daughter Lorraine Warner Casu of Sardinia, Italy; son James L. Warner of Clarence; and brother Charles F. Hertrick of Rochester. Other relatives include Giordano Casu, grandson; Ariella Casu, granddaughter; Brooke Warner, granddaughter; daughter-inlaw Mara Neville and step-grandchildren Rose, Peter and Emma Neville. Sandra earned degrees from Westminster College (BS mathematics); SUNY at Buffalo (EdM mathematics); and Canisius College (MBA finance). She taught mathematics and then worked at Buffalo Savings Bank, Niagara Share Corporation, and M&T Bank. She ended her career as a Principal Bank Examiner of the New York State Banking Department. A longtime resident of Clarence, Sandra was an active volunteer. She served as Treasurer of Clarence United Methodist Church for over thirty years. She was Treasurer and a Board member of Future in Our Hands, a charity that makes microloans to grassroots endeavors in Africa. She volunteered as a Site Coordinator for AARP Income Tax Centers, and served as Treasurer for Clarence Log Cabin Quilters, Ten Thousand Villages, and the Clarence Historical Society. Her active hobbies included swimming,  tennis, hiking, canoeing and bicycling. She was an avid gardener and loved to quilt, knit, and embroider. A ceremony to celebrate Sandra’s life will be held at the Clarence United Methodist Church, 10205 Greiner Rd., Clarence, on July 22, at 10:00 am. Contributions can be made in her memory to Clarence United Methodist Church. Please share online condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com

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Louis Conrad Donovan Jr. - May 01, 2023 - May 07, 2023

Departed: 05/07/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: DONOVAN - Louis Conrad, Jr. Former long-time resident of Clarence, NY and communicant of Our Lady of Peace Church, passed peacefully on May 7th at the age of 94. Born and raised in Mount Morris, NY, Lou was the son of Louis and Dolores Donovan. He served in the US Army during the Korean war, stationed in Japan. He and Mary Thompson of Hunt, NY married in 1951. A graduate of Syracuse University, Lou spent the majority of his career in finance working in accounting at GTE Sylvania, then Pennwalt in Rochester, NY. Over the years, through several corporate relocations, he and Mary raised four children. Lou was predeceased by his loving wife Mary (Thompson) Donovan in 2007, his sister Natalie (Donovan) Hemmer in 2005, and his grandson Kyle Simmons, in 2021. He is survived by his sister Nancy (Ann) Wells, of Oregon. Lou's well- timed wit and global perspective will live on in the memories of his children, Michelle (Edmond) Boctor , Jerry (Ann) Donovan, Paula (John) Simmons, and Paticia (James) Finn. Surviving family includes ten beloved grandchildren, and 23 great-grandchildren. A Mass of Christian burial will take place on Monday, May 22nd 9:30AM at Our Lady of Peace Church, 10950 Main St., Clarence. Condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com Service 9:30 am Monday, May 22, 2023 Our Lady of Peace RC Church 10950 Main St Clarence, New York, United States

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Elaine H Rowley - January 01, 1933 - April 28, 2023

Departed: 04/28/2023 (Depew)

Obituary Preview: ROWLEY - Elaine H. (nee Castren) April 28, 2023; beloved wife of the late Howard; dear mother of Dr. Allison (Scott) Davis and Nancy (Douglas) Roba and the late Howard Jr.; step mother of John (Teri), Sharon, James (Rose), Timothy (Marlene) Rowley and Ellen Delucia; adored nana of Brenden and Kevin; sister of Arnold (Sally), Nancy Bonazelli, Neil, Dean (Suzanne) Castren, and the late Kay Fisher; also survived by nieces and nephews. A service will be held at Clarence United Methodist Church, 10205 Greiner Rd,, Clarence, Saturday, May 6 10AM. Please assemble at church. Elaine was a lifelong resident of the town of Clarence where she was involved with the library and served on the Ethics Board. Please share condolences at www.ShepardBrosFuneralHome.com Service 10:00 am Saturday, May 6, 2023 Clarence United Methodist Church 10205 Greiner Rd Clarence, New York, United States

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Personalized Funeral Services

At Shepard Brothers Funeral Home, every funeral service is tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of each family. From traditional funerals and cremations to memorial services and celebrations of life, their experienced staff will work closely with you to create a personalized tribute that honors your loved one's legacy. They offer a range of options to suit different tastes, budgets, and cultural backgrounds, ensuring that every family receives the level of care and attention they deserve.

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home's facilities are designed to provide a comfortable and peaceful environment for families to gather and pay their respects. The spacious chapel can accommodate large crowds, while the intimate visitation rooms provide a private setting for smaller gatherings. Additional amenities include ample parking, wheelchair accessibility, and a convenient location near major highways.

Pre-Planning Services

Shepard Brothers Funeral Home understands that planning ahead can be a wise decision for individuals who want to ensure their final wishes are respected and alleviate the burden on their loved ones. Their pre-planning services allow individuals to make informed decisions about their funeral arrangements in advance, including selecting caskets, flowers, music, and other details. By pre-planning, families can also lock in costs at today's prices, protecting against future inflation.

Cremation Options

In addition to traditional funeral services, Shepard Brothers Funeral Home offers a range of cremation options to suit different needs and preferences. From direct cremation to cremation with memorial services, their experienced staff will guide you through the process and help you choose the option that best honors your loved one's memory. They also offer a variety of urns and keepsakes to help families cherish their loved one's ashes.

Grief Support and Resources

Losing a loved one can be an overwhelming experience, but Shepard Brothers Funeral Home is committed to supporting families beyond the funeral service. They offer grief support resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online resources, to help families navigate the grieving process. Their dedicated team is always available to provide guidance and comfort during this difficult time.

Community Involvement

Shepard Brothers Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the Depew community and is committed to giving back through various charitable initiatives and sponsorships. They partner with local organizations to support bereaved families, veterans, and other community members in need. By engaging in community activities and events, they demonstrate their commitment to building strong relationships with the people they serve.

Contact Information

If you're looking for a trusted funeral home that provides compassionate care and personalized services, contact Shepard Brothers Funeral Home today. You can reach them by phone at [phone number], or visit their website at [website URL]. Their dedicated team is always available to answer questions, provide guidance, or simply offer a listening ear during life's most challenging moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It's usually published in a newspaper, online obituary platform, or funeral home website to inform friends, family, and acquaintances of the person's passing.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing essential information to those who need to know about the passing. They help to notify people of the funeral or memorial service details, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences to the grieving family.

Who typically writes an obituary?

In most cases, the obituary is written by the family members or close friends of the deceased. Funeral homes or crematories may also offer assistance in writing the obituary, especially if they are handling the funeral arrangements.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, military service (if applicable), hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include details about the funeral or memorial service.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or platform. Traditional newspaper obituaries are usually shorter, ranging from 100 to 200 words. Online obituaries can be longer, often up to 500 words or more.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many online obituary platforms and funeral home websites allow you to upload photos of the deceased. This can be a meaningful way to personalize the obituary and celebrate the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. Some newspapers may have online submission forms or email addresses for sending obituaries.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it's becoming increasingly popular for people to write their own obituaries in advance. This can be a therapeutic exercise that allows you to reflect on your life and legacy.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or platform. Newspaper obituaries can range from $50 to $500 or more, while online obituaries may be free or low-cost.

Can I edit an obituary after it's been published?

In most cases, it's difficult to make changes to an obituary once it's been published in print. However, online obituaries can often be edited or updated by the original author or funeral home staff.

How long do online obituaries remain available?

Online obituaries usually remain available for an extended period, sometimes indefinitely. This allows friends and family to visit and leave condolences at any time.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes, many online obituary platforms provide sharing options for social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. This makes it easy to notify friends and family about the passing.

What's the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only basic information like name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that celebrates the person's life and accomplishments.

Can I include charitable donations in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in the obituary. This can be a meaningful way to honor the deceased and support a favorite cause.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or genealogy websites like Ancestry.com. Local libraries or historical societies may also have archives of old newspapers that can be searched.

Can I write an anonymous condolence message?

No, it's generally considered inappropriate to leave anonymous condolence messages. Signing your name or leaving a first name is a sign of respect and allows the family to acknowledge your support.

How long should I wait before writing a condolence message?

There's no specific timeframe for writing a condolence message. It's best to send your condolences as soon as possible after learning about the passing, but even weeks or months later can be appreciated by the grieving family.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Yes, many families choose to incorporate humorous anecdotes or personality traits into the obituary as a way to celebrate the deceased person's life and spirit.

What if I'm not comfortable writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider asking a friend or family member for help. Funeral homes or crematories may also offer guidance or assistance with writing the obituary.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, quotes, lyrics, or poems can add meaning and personalization to an obituary. Choose something that resonates with the deceased person's values or interests.

How do I handle errors in an already-published obituary?

Contact the publication or platform where the obituary was published as soon as possible to report any errors. They may be able to correct the mistake in subsequent publications or online versions.

Can I create a memorial webpage instead of an obituary?

Yes, many online platforms offer memorial webpages that allow you to create a personalized tribute with photos, stories, and condolences. These pages can remain active for years to come.

What if I'm unsure about what to say in a condolence message?

Sometimes simplicity is best. A heartfelt "I'm so sorry for your loss" or "My thoughts are with you" can go a long way in showing your support and care for the grieving family.