Mercedes Ann Hatter

It is with deep sadness that we share the passing of Mercedes Ann Hatter, 85, who passed away on June 14, 2026, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's.

Born September 28, 1940, in Jenkins Township, Greater Pittston area of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. Merce attended SUNY Cortland. She lived a beautiful full life characterized by fierce devotion to her family and a deep passion for the arts. She was a gifted artist, known for her hand-painted works and ceramics. Merce taught ceramics at the IBM Country Club for 10 years and successfully owned and operated two businesses: Top Hatter Ceramics and The Olde Railway Station gift shop, where she proudly showcased her creations.

Beyond her art, her family was her greatest joy. Merce was an unwavering supporter of her daughters, grandchildren and great grandchild, dedicating countless hours to cheering them on—from freezing in New England hockey rinks to enduring summer heat at baseball and softball diamonds and swim meets. She also treasured family vacations at Bethany Beach and the St. Lawrence River, surrounded by her loved ones.  She always had at least one grandchild in tow while feeding another one or chasing one down the beach.  Her family was her life.

She was predeceased by the love of her life and husband of 57 years, Robert Harold Hatter; her parents, Joseph and Evelyn Scherer; and her in-laws, Harold and Mary Hatter.

Merce leaves behind a legacy of love and is survived by:

• Daughters: Renee Hook (Doug) of New Milford, CT, and Kimberly Baron (John) of Endwell, NY.

• Grandchildren: Joshua Hook, Jena Hook, Avery Hook, Zachery Hook, John Scott Baron, and Jessica Baron.

• Great-Grandchild: Sophie Marie Baron.

• Sisters-in-law: Roberta Macarchick, Karen Lacomis, and Linda Rava, whom she loved as her own sisters.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Most Holy Rosary Church in Maine NY on Tuesday, June 16th, 2026 at 10:00AM.  Entombment will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell NY.  At the request of the family there will be no calling hours.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made in Merce’s memory to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude PL.  Memphis, TN 38105-9959.

Warren Loza

Warren Loza was born in Jamaica, West Indies, his early childhood spent in Queens, New York, the family later made Vestal, New York, home .

Warren was predeceased by his father, Barry Loza. He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved children, Justice, Davion, Maelani, and Omari; his loving mother, Lorna Loza; his cherished
grandmother, Marjorie Chambers; his brothers, Dean, Kyle, Jamar, Mysja his sister, Monique; his uncles, Richard  Jones  (Shauna  Jones) and Byron Dwyer(Tricia Dwyer); his cousins Kadeem, Jan, Chrissy, and Tia, who were siblings to him; Bryan, who was both a brother and friend; and scores of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly. He worked at Lopke for 18yrs, He was never seen angry, and his calm, easygoing nature left a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Warren will be remembered for his love of family, his warm spirit, and the lasting impact he made on those fortunate enough to know him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

My-Ly L. Nguyen Sperry

My-Ly L. Nguyen Sperry, 46 of Endwell, NY, passed away on June 4, 2026, at Wilson Hospital after a courageous nearly one-year battle with cancer. She was born in Norfolk, Virginia and passed away just 3 weeks shy of her 47thbirthday.

My-Ly was the love of her husband Chris’ life. She was an exemplary mother figure, human being, dedicated friend and one who was always willing to offer guidance. She embodied the best qualities, she had a strong, generous spirit, and an unending love of education, all of which can be seen in her beautiful 8-year-old daughter, Leah. She was the beloved and cherished daughter of Khanh and Ha-Luu Nguyen.

My-Ly went to Maine Endwell Schools and graduated in the top ten of her class. She continued her education at SUNY Binghamton where she earned her MBA. She was an excellent business editor at the Binghamton Press and Sun Bulletin for many years. She later continued her career at Binghamton University Research Foundation until her passing.

My-Ly is also survived by her stepdaughter, Taylir Sodan, her in-laws, Fred and Marta; her brother, Kenny (Lacey), her nephew, Bennett, along with many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

Private funeral services were provided by the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. Entombment was in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. A Celebration of Life for family and friends will be announced at a later date.

Kim M. Goguen

Kim M. Goguen, 61, of Endwell, NY, passed away peacefully on June 2, 2026, after a short battle with unexpected health issues.

Kim was a devoted wife, mother, and caregiver whose love and compassion touched the lives of everyone around her. She was preceded in death by her son, Warren J. Goguen Jr., who passed just weeks before on May 15, 2026.

She is survived by her husband, Warren Goguen Sr.; her daughter, Melinda Goguen; her son, Daniel Goguen; and her granddaughter, Riley Goguen, who brought her great joy.

Kim was an exceptional mother who dedicated herself to raising her children with unconditional love, patience, and unwavering support. She often shared that some of her favorite moments in life were the years spent caring for and raising her family. Her nurturing spirit, kindness, and devotion were at the heart of who she was.

After raising her three children, Kim returned to college and graduated from SUNY Broome as a Registered Nurse. She took great pride in caring for others, and her natural compassion and gentle nature were evident both in her profession and in her everyday life. Helping people came naturally to Kim.

Kim will be deeply missed by her family and friends, but her fond memory will live on in their hearts.

Funeral services will be held Saturday June 13th at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY, at 12:30 PM. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Saturday June 13th from 11:00 AM until time of service at 12:30 PM

Joseph F. Horvatt

Joseph F. Horvatt, 93 of Endicott, NY, went to the loving arms of the Lord on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. He was predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Rose Horvatt, his wife, Theresa Horvatt, and his sister, Mary Horvatt. He is survived by his twin sons who were the apples of his eye, Patrick (Cindy) Horvatt and Michael Horvatt; his granddaughters who he was very proud of, Irena (Peter) Raia and Luneth Horvatt, also many nieces and nephews. Joseph brought much happiness to his family, especially at Holiday time. He loved God and the Blessed Mother. He was a member of St. Joseph’s Church Endicott for over 50 years. The family would like to thank the Wilson Cardiac Care Unit for their efforts and care for Joseph.

A Funeral Mass will be offered on Thursday May 28that 11:00 AM at St. Joseph’s Church 207 Hayes Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at St. Joseph’s Church on Thursday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM.

Warren J. Goguen, Jr.

Warren J. Goguen, Jr., 44 of Endwell, NY, passed away unexpectedly on Friday May 15, 2026. He is survived by his parents, Warren, Sr. and Kim (Shayka) Goguen; his sister, Melinda Goguen; his brother, Daniel Goguen; one niece, several aunts, uncles and cousins. Warren had a strong faith in Jesus Christ and loved music.

Private funeral services will be held at the convenience of the family.

Jean Marie Caletka (Huggler)

Jean Marie Caletka (Huggler), lovingly known to so many as “Mrs. C” and “Mema,” of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones on May 11, 2026, at the age of 89. Born on April 10, 1937, in Newton, PA, Jean lived a life centered around peace, love and joy.

Jean was predeceased by her husband, Joseph Caletka; parents, Emil and Elizabeth Huggler; her sister, Genevieve Huggler; and her brothers, Thomas Huggler and Melvin Huggler. She is survived by her children: David Caletka and wife Pamela, Mark Caletka and wife Patricia, Amy Radulski and husband Edward, and Timothy Caletka and wife Stacey; her grandchildren, Shauna Caletka, Joseph Radulski, Elizabeth Jenkins (Caletka), Paul Caletka, Melanie Caletka, Mackenzie Caletka, and Adam Caletka; sister-in-law Sarah Huggler; along with several great- grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and many beloved friends.

Jean shared a beautiful love story with her husband, Joe “Bepop,” who passed away in 2020. Married in 1957, they built a life centered around family, traditions, laughter, and simple joys. Whether it was bus trips, camping adventures, traveling, entertaining friends, or quiet evenings together, their love was something everyone around them could feel. Together, they created a home full of warmth, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Jean loved to travel, adored ladybugs, treasured her jewelry, and found joy in cooking and baking. She was the heart of every holiday and family gathering, known for her beautiful decorations and desserts, especially her famous rum cake. Family meant everything to her, and she loved them fiercely. She never missed a school event, activities, or important milestones, always showing up with love, support, and pride. Some of the family’s favorite memories were made during summers camping at Greenwood with Mema and Bepop, filled with pancake breakfasts, campfires, bike rides through the campground, and evenings spent surrounded by family and friends. Her brother Mel, who sadly passed away just hours after her, was always there keeping the kids laughing and entertained.

Jean will also be remembered for her involvement in her church community, where she spent many years volunteering and helping run the church bazaar pizza frite stand. Many knew her as the “Hallmark lady” from her years working at the Hallmark store in the Oakdale Mall, and family fondly remembers visits to the Lourdes Café, where she loved treating them to her beloved milkshakes.
Though she will be deeply missed, the traditions she created, the love she gave, and the memories she leaves behind will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

The family extends a sincere heartfelt thank-you to the staff at Home Instead for the outstanding care and compassion they provided Jean over the past several years.

Funeral services will be held at St. James Church, where a Funeral Mass will be offered on May 29th at 11am. The family will receive friends at the church from 10 to 11am prior to the funeral mass.
In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in memory of Jean may be made to St. Joseph's Church, St. James Church, Mercy House of the Southern Tier, Food Bank of the Southern Tier, Catholic Schools of Broome County, or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Donald (Donny) Roy Parker

It is with great sadness and heartfelt love that we announce the passing of Donald (Donny) Roy Parker on May 11, 2026. Donny was born December 15, 1953 to Donald S. and Patricia S. Parker. He is survived by his sister Pamela (David) and nephew Michael, brother Brian (Bonnie) and two nephews Stuart and Patrick. Donny and their children’s mother, Barbara Fiske, together have two beautiful daughters Kasey Barrie (Sean) Nicole Bowers along with his three grandchildren: Aubrey, Cecilia and Eleanor. 

Donny was a graduate of Binghamton North High School. He joined the US Army in 1973 where he served our country and saw the world. When his service days were over he worked as an electronics technician and later went on to host his own political radio station.

He was a connoisseur of music, history, art and outer space; he despised the government!

He had his “best” friend ‘Run’ by his side from 2007-2023 they were the best of buddies and inseparable!

Donny always wanted things ‘to be paid forward’ as a gesture of love. Therefore, he will have body parts donated for transplantation, research, education or advancement of science.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Sunday, August 2 at 12:00 noon at the Parker Cemetery, Parker Street, Lapeer, NY (Cortland County). Pucedo Funeral Home is in charge of the cremation.

Rita A. Rogers

Rita A. Rogers, age 81, of Endicott, passed peacefully on May 13, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in the home she cherished. She went to the loving arms of Jesus after a life defined by faith, devotion, and deep love for her family.

Rita’s greatest joy was her family. She loved her children and grandchildren immeasurably, and they brought constant happiness to her heart. She worked faithfully for 41 years at Endicott Johnson before retiring, a testament to her strong work ethic and dedication.

Rita was predeceased by her parents, Dominick and Genevieve Belardinelli, and her brother, Del Belardinelli.

She is survived by her loving husband, Wayne Rogers; her son, Aaron Rogers; daughter‑in‑law, Marissa Rogers; and her cherished grandchildren, Hadley and Clara. She is also survived by her sister, Diana Roma; brother, Dennis and sister-in-law Pam Belardinelli; and brother, Robert Belardinelli; sister‑in‑law, Nancy Chechalk; and many nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly.

At Rita’s request, there will be no services at this time. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, contributions in Rita’s memory may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105

Philip B. (Benny) King

Philip B. (Benny) King, age 87, went home to glory on April 15, 2026, after a short illness. He was predeceased by his parents, Philip and Gladys King; his brother, Rev. Thomas B. King. He is survived by his children, Thomas King, Jennifer Hosier, Jeffrey King and Joseph King (Nicole); his sisters, Carolyn Titus and Jeanie King Slawta; his sister-in-law, Joyce King; eleven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Benny graduated from U-E High School in 1957 and served his country in the US Army in Korea from 1959-1961. He worked locally as an accountant and with various construction projects. He was an avid fan of his sons’ wrestling careers for U-E High School. His longtime friend, Dennis Cochardo, introduced him to the game of chess and he became an ardent student of the game.

A celebration of life will be held by the family at a later date. Memorial contributions may be made in his memory to either Mercy House or Tunnel to Towers.

Bernard John Massis

Joseph Anthony Kolone (Joe)

Joseph Anthony Kolone (Joe) of Endicott, NY, passed over to Our Lord on May 6th, 2026, at the ripe old age of 102. Joseph was predeceased by his parents, Frances and Michael Kolony; four sisters, Irene, Millie, Mary and Cecelia; his beloved wife of 73 years, Theresa. He is survived by his daughters, Marion Kovach of Lake Frederick, VA, and Julie Tallo (James) of Endwell, NY, and his son, Richard “Rick” of Cascade, MT, and numerous nieces and nephews.
 Joe was a WWII Army Veteran who served in Manilla, The Philippines as a tech specialist. He worked for the Endicott Johnson Shoe Factory, and later at Homer Brink Elementary School as head custodian. When his wife Theresa became proprietor of Mama T’s Restaurant in Endwell, NY, he helped her by bussing tables and doing some renovations. He and Theresa made many friends there, and it was one of the happiest times in his life. Joe was a lifelong member of St. Joseph’s Church where he served in the Holy Name Society and as an usher.
Joe’s passions included gardening and home improvement. His roses were his pride and joy. His talented woodwork is showcased in his home in the basement recreation room he created as well as our family room which features a beautiful bluestone fireplace. He was meticulous in detail in every hobby.
Joe attributed his longevity in this world by offering his simple philosophy to not let the small things get you down, stay busy, and work together with your partner for a happy life.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday May 13th at 12:00 Noon at St, Joseph’s Church 207 Hayes Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will be in Sts. Peter and Paul Byzantine Catholic Cemetery at the convenience of the family. The family will receive friends at St. Joseph’s Church on Wednesday May 13th from 11:00 AM until time of Mass at 12 Noon. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to St. Joseph’s Church.

Vincenzo “Vince” Tanzini

Vincenzo “Vince” Tanzini, 75 of Endicott, NY, passed away peacefully, Monday May 4, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. He was predeceased by his parents, Umberto and Agata Tanzini and his father-in-law and mother-in-law, Victor and Lillian Lacatena. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Judy (Lacatena) Tanzini; four children, Jennifer Ostrander (Ronald), Kristy Widelec (David), Michelle Storinge (Todd), and Michael Tanzini; four grandchildren, Jeremy and Maya Widelec, Harry and Leo Storinge; three sisters, Gina Duggan, Anna Lainhardt (Derek), Rita Vesely (Tom); his brother-in-law, Jimmy Lacatena; his sister-in-law, Vikki Lacatena; along with several nieces, nephews and cousins. He was a veteran of the US Army, a retired employee of Felix Roma and Sons Bakery with 50 years of service, a member of the Duca Degli Abruzzi Lodge #443 Sons and Daughters of Italy in America and a member of St. Anthony of Padua Church, Endicott. Vince was an avid golfer, NY Yankee fan and strongly devoted to his family. He enjoyed life’s simple pleasures: a hot cup of coffee with friends in the morning, a bowl of pasta at dinner and gathering with family and friends while reclined in his living room. The family extends special thanks to Sr. Anisia Muthoni for her frequent visits and prayers, Dr. John Bertini and the staff of UHS Wilson Hospital; especially the Nurses for their exceptional care and support.

The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY, on Thursday May 14th from 5 to 7 PM. Funeral services will be held Friday May 15th at 11:00 AM at St. Anthony of Padua Church 300 Odell Ave. Endicott, NY.Burial will be at the convenience of the family. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his memory to St. Frances Ministry, c/o Sr. Anisia Muthoni 906 Jenkins St. Endicott, NY 13760.

Leandra Mary Mastrogiacomo Theodore

Leandra Theodore was born on January 25, 1931, to Dominic and Annette Mastrogiacomo, in Endicott, NY.  Lee, as she was known to family and friends, was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother. Over the course of her 95 years, Lee honed her skills as an artist and painter, and for many years worked as a technical illustrator, for IBM, GAF, and other local firms. She had an uncanny ability to visualize almost anything and represent it artistically. She also ran Mother Goose PreSchool for nearly 10 years. Lee was predeceased by her husband, Andrew, her daughter, Lisa Theodore, sister, Pauline Savoni, and her parents, Dominic and Annette Mastrogiacomo. She is survived by her daughters, Maria (Rob Schafer) and Claudia Theodore (Robert Butler), her grandchildren, Robert Schafer (Jamie), David Schafer (Meg), Anthony Talerico (Kelly), and Gabriella Hosny, and ten great grandchildren: Robert, Juliette, Teddy and Rua Schafer; Jack, Grace, and Aisling Schafer; Alexis, Andy, and Lucia Talerico.

Friends and family may pay respects at St Anthony of Padua Church, 300 Odell Ave, Endicott, NY, on Saturday, May 9th , between 9 -10 am. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 am, with entombment immediately following at Calvary Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her memory are appreciated to either Mercy House 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760 or The Veterans of Foreign Wars 406 W. 34th St. Kansas City, MO 64111 or https://heroes.vfw.org

Frances “Marie” Yuricek

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Frances “Marie” Yuricek, 81, of Sunset Beach, NC (formerly of Endicott, NY), who left us suddenly on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

Marie was predeceased by her parents, William and Lucia Pelligra; her sister, Josephine Pelligra; her brother, Rosario Pelligra; her husband, Ronald Yuricek; and her son, Jeremy Yuricek. She is survived by her devoted children, LuAnne (Timothy) DeSantis of Cary, NC; Jonathan (Danette) Yuricek of Shallotte, NC; and Ana Hewitt of Delray Beach, FL. She also leaves behind seven cherished grandchildren—Isaiah and Abel (Caroline) Yuricek; Jack, Jayson, and Josselyn DeSantis; and Sofia and Olivia Yuricek—along with many beloved cousins, including Phyllis Spadafora of Syracuse, NY; Patty Ciotoli and Marguerite Anechiarico of Endicott, NY; and a wide circle of relatives and friends whose lives she touched.

Marie grew up in North Syracuse and attended SUNY Potsdam, earning a degree in Education. It was there, in the small college town of Potsdam, that she met her future husband, Ron, a student at Clarkson University. Before starting her family, she taught elementary school, a role that suited her gentle spirit and natural patience.

An adventurous chapter of her life unfolded when Ron’s work brought them to England, giving Marie the opportunity to travel wide and experience the world.

Though soft-spoken and unfailingly kind, Marie possessed a competitive spark—especially when seated at a trivia game, mah jongg set, or bridge table. She was an avid reader and found joy in quilting and knitting, creating pieces that reflected her warmth and creativity.

Her happiest moments were often spent at her cherished Lake Ontario cottage, lovingly built by her father when she was a teenager. The cottage’s breathtaking sunsets became a backdrop to countless family memories and a place of deep peace for her.

Quiet by nature but unwavering in her devotion, Marie was the steady center of her family—a source of compassion, strength, and enduring love. Her absence leaves a profound void, and she will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Funeral services celebrating Marie’s life will be held on Monday May 11, 2026, at 11:30 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY. Burial will be Tuesday May 12th at the Assumption Cemetery, Syracuse, NY, at 10:30 AM. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Monday May 11th from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:30 AM.  All who knew and loved her are warmly invited to join in honoring her memory.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Ellen Huber Judd Pimbley

Ellen Huber Judd Pimbley, 91 years old, passed away peacefully in the early hours of April 24. Her sons had held her hand in turn through a long day of decline: she was very loved. Ellen was the widow of Walter Thornton Pimbley, who passed in 2024 - after 68 years of marriage. She’s survived by two sons, three grandchildren, and three great-grandchildren. Ellen had been a fireball, a young woman of exceptional energy and force. She never walked up the stairs - she RAN up them, carrying bags of groceries or a basket of laundry or even a vacuum cleaner. When her kids got out of diapers in the early sixties, she cast about for more activity. So it was volunteer work: Sunday School teacher, Presbyterian church elder, League of Women Voters (she moderated a mayoral debate in Binghamton - it came on the tube after Drazen’s Fashion Show one evening, and her family enjoyed watching her), Red Cross blood drives, and more. Ellen in her Chrysler Newport zoomed the Vestal parkway from Good Work to Good Work, peeling out from every annoying red light. Her husband later said he had to buy her new tires every year, because she left most of the rubber at Five Corners.

Ellen was born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania in 1934. Her father, Nelson T. Judd, was an engineer for Pennsylvania Electric and Gas all through the thirties, ameliorating the Depression for his big family. Her mother was Sara Martin Judd, who went from ‘20s flapper to redoubtable matriarch. They paid for Ellen’s schooling at Penn State. And Ellen achieved there. Penn State had a sprawling Home Economics department, and Ellen took valedictorian in 1956. Then she got a fellowship to study Foods and Nutrition, married Walt, moved into grad student housing, and knocked out her master’s thesis just before delivering her first son. Then came the diapers, the move to Vestal, another son and more diapers, and then the flurry of volunteer work. That palled for her around 1968: “You know what the reward for good volunteer work is, kid?” “What, Mom?” (Ellen liked using her sons as straight men.) “More volunteer work.” So after feeding the troops at night, she’d climb into the Newport and zoom up to Cortland to get her teaching certification. Her first school was George H. Nichols (1969 - 1975), where Principal Anne Gordon - an Endicott institution - discovered she was good at getting bad boys to fly right. So she got lots of bad boys thrust upon her, and Ellen thrived. “Reading and math, reading and math! Get them up to grade level or you’ve failed them.” In 1975 she moved to the Northside school, George W. Johnson, where she taught fourth grade until she retired in 1991. “I’d rather have seven bad boys in a class than one bad girl: boys I can fix.” (They didn’t always stay fixed. Once she got a letter from Attica saying “I should have listened to you, Mrs. Pimbley.”) Ellen and Walt enjoyed at least 25 years of retirement together before Ellen began to spiral down into Alzheimer’s. She ended her days at Good Shepherd in Endwell, where the staff of the Skilled Nursing Unit kept her comfortable and cheerful - for which her family is very grateful.

Funeral services will be held Saturday, May 2nd, at 12:30 PM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Saturday from 11 AM until time of service at 12:30 PM.

Donald “Bear” French

Donald “Bear” French, 76 of Endicott, NY, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Monday April 20, 2026. He was predeceased by his parents, Dalton and Lottie French; his wives, Dody and Glenda French; his son, Joseph French; his grandson, DJ Denny; his brother, Johnnie French; his sisters, Viola VanWorth and Doris Hembree. He is survived by his wife, Liz Pearce; his children, Richard French, Stacy Esparza (Tommy), Lisa Bassett (David), Becky Westfall (Scott); his step-children Angela Chaves and Dino Chaves; his grandchildren, Josie, Joseph, Stormie, Olivia, Justin (Alice), Makenzie, Gianna, Donavonn and Jade; his dear friend, Major Thomas Johnson; his beloved girl, Layla.

He was a veteran of the US Army serving during the Vietnam Era. He worked oil rigs in Oklahoma and California, was a former bodyguard for Stevie Nicks and Keith Carradine as well as a body double for Jack Nicholson. He had a lifelong passion for motorcycles and was a former member of the Hell’s Angels and former President and member of the Nobody’s Motorcycle Club.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday April 28th at 11:00 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Tuesday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to The Stella D'Argento Lodge (Christmas with a Vet) c/o Charlene Jones 101 Ash Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Elona F. Tordonato

We sadly announce the passing of Elona F. Tordonato, who was born at Ideal Hospital in Endicott, NY to Frank and Teresa Ziobro on April 11, 1940. She passed away peacefully at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital on April 16, 2026, surrounded by loved ones. She was a graduate of Union Endicott High School, Class of 1958. While working for Lignacraft at Link Aviation, in Hillcrest NY, she met Anthony (Tony) Tordonato.
They were married September 8, 1962, and moved to Northampton, PA. She worked at Mack Trucks before she and Tony started a family. She then worked as a homemaker and was a mother to her two daughters. She volunteered as Room Mother in her daughter’s classrooms during their Elementary School years at George H. Nichols. As they got older, she worked part time for the Union Endicott
School District and then she worked at The Tax Works. She was a 46-year member of Northminster Presbyterian Church where he served as a Deacon. Elona enjoyed hobbies such as league bowling and ceramics, but her true passion was shopping for a great bargain and traveling. She spent endless ours
working on the committee for several class reunions. She had a gift for finding classmates over the years and was very detail oriented to ensure these reunions were enjoyed by all who attended. She
and Tony enjoyed countless vacations. Some of their favorite destinations included Boston, Washington, DC, Santa Barbara and the California Coast, Northeast coast/New England, extensive
Florida destinations, Puerto Rico, Italy, Hawaii, a cross country trip with stops at many National Parks and US landmarks. They enjoyed several cruises, including the Panama Canal, Bermuda, Nova Scotia
and two European River Cruises. Elona and Tony were snowbirds to Vero Beach, FL for 18 years where they enjoyed the winter months in the warm, beautiful Floria sun.

Elona is pre-deceased by her husband Tony in October 2024, her parents Frank and Teresa (Elnicky) Ziobro, her sister Lillian and Brother-in-Law, Robert (Bob) Avery; Sister-in-Law and Brother-in-Law Esther (Tordonato) and Alfred Santoro; Brother-in-Law and Sister-in-Law Carl and Grace Tordonato; and Brother-in-Law Frank Tordonato. She is survived by daughters Sally (Robert) Bennett and Amy; grandchildren Nathaniel/Nate (Fiancée Maggie) and Ryan Bennett; Aaron, Aidan and Alexa Brainard;
brother Gerald Ziobron, Sister-in-Law Josephine (Josi) Todaro; and several nieces, nephews, great-nieces
and great-nephews.

Funeral services will be held at Northminster Presbyterian Church, 711 Farm-to-Market Road, Endwell, NY 13760, on Monday April 20th at 11:00 AM. Entombment to follow at Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Monday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM.. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Northminster Presbyterian Church.

Marian L. Johnson (Polly)

Marian L. Johnson (Polly), 90 of Endwell, NY, passed away April 10, 2026 after a brief illness. She was predeceased by her parents, Gerald and Elizabeth Hine; and her son, William G. Goodrich (Gene) . She is survived by her husband Robert L. Johnson; her daughter, Polly E. Ross (Peg); her son, Perry M. Goodrich (Pepper); two step-daughters, Ester Graves and Susan Johnson. She had eleven grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Marian led a full life and wore many hats, daughter, sister, wife and mother. She was hardworking and had a variety of jobs, from daycare, short order cook, waitress, manager and business owner. She co-owned and helped operate the G & G Cidermill and owned and operated along with her daughters, The Sidney Tastee Treat for over forty years.

She received a full scholarship to Boston University but decided to marry and become a wife and mother. She enjoyed roller skating, gardening, riding motorcycles, painting and playing the Piano. She was a quilter and crocheted leaving behind a little piece of herself for her family members.
She and her husband Robert belonged to a square dancing club and enjoyed many vacations to the Antarctic, Alaska, and Canada along with a cross country train trip.

She was a woman of great character and wisdom. She was a giver and always thought of others before herself. She sacrificed her time, possessions and finances for others. She loved with her heart and was respected and loved by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 17th at 1:00 PM at Chenango Valley State Park at the Tween Lake Pavilion. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the American Cancer Society. 

Josephine (Josie) Heggelke

Josephine (Josie) Heggelke, 86, passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026. She was predeceased by her husband, Keith Heggelke; her parents, John and Louise Parisi; her brothers, Tony and Joe Parisi; her sisters, Sarah Donato and Grace Brink, and several nieces and nephews. She is survived by her children, Steve, Scott (JuLee), John (Sabine), Keith (Erin); her brother, Sam (Dee) Parisi; her sister, Mary Lenga; her grandchildren, Cristine, Steven, Brittni, Zackary, Scott Michael, Jason, Tyler, Christofer, Alexander, Paige and Mallory; her great-grandchildren, Garrett and Grace; and numerous nieces and nephews along with special friends, Johnny, Pat, Barb, Mary, Lisa, Jean, and her former daughter-in-law, Debbie.

Josie was truly the matriarch of the family, always there in times of emergency or whenever anyone needed comfort. She was the glue that held the family together and the true definition of unconditional love. Josie was known for her energy and her deep love for others. She enjoyed cooking her favorite Italian dishes and baking delicious pies. Josie touched the lives of countless people and will be missed dearly.

The Heggelke family would like to express their deep gratitude to the staff at the Wilmot Cancer Center at the University of Rochester and Brookdale Summerfield, where she quickly made friends and left a lasting impression on everyone she met. We would also like to extend a special thank you to the staff and volunteers at Mercy House in Endicott, where she spent her final days and passed peacefully surrounded by her family. The staff and volunteers are truly proof that angels exist.

Funeral services will be held Monday April 20th at 11:00 AM at The Church of the Holy Family, 3600 Phyllis St. Endwell, NY. Entombment will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at The Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY, on Sunday April 19th from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM AND Monday morning at The Church of the Holy Family from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. The family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Mercy House, 212 N. McKinley Ave, Endicott, NY 13760.