Diana (DeSantis) Caffo

Diana (DeSantis) Caffo 94 of Endwell passed away on Monay November 3, 2025. She was predeceased by her husband of 70 years, Gene Caffo; her daughter Jeanne Marie Voos; her parents Louis and Adriana DeSantis and her brother Louis DeSantis, Jr.

She is survived by her son John Caffo and her son-in-law Walter Voos; her brother and two sisters-in-law Len (Nancy) DeSantis, Judy DeSantis; also her dear friend Gale Smith and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was a member of St. Anthony of Padua Church, Endicott and a retired employee of SUNY Binghamton. She enjoyed trips to Tioga Downs and Turning Stone and was an avid bowler and bingo player. A special thank you to the staff of Vestal Park for their love and compassion during her stay with them.

Funeral services will be held Monday November 10th at 11:00 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY.Burial will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Monday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Jude Children’s Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

James Edwin “Jamie” Edwards Jr.

James Edwin “Jamie” Edwards Jr., 70, of Endwell, NY, passed away on November 2, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones.

He is survived by his three children, Derek (Sarah), James III (Melissa), and Ericia (Joe); and his six adored grandchildren, Michael, Alexander, Maria, James Marie, Wells, and Cole. He also leaves behind his siblings, Penny (Kevin), Sandy (Chris), and David (Mary), and many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss his humor, loyalty, and kindness. He was preceded in death by his parents, James Sr. and Beverly Edwards.

Jamie lived and breathed sports. Whether he was on the field as a player, calling a game as an umpire, coaching from the sidelines, or cheering in the stands, sports were at the heart of who he was. His love for the game was more than just a hobby — it was how he connected with others, taught life lessons, and showed his pride in his community and family. Every season, every game, and every play held a special place in his heart.

Still, nothing brought him greater joy than watching his children and grandchildren — on and off the field. Jamie’s pride in his family was unmatched, and he never missed a chance to support them, encourage them, and celebrate every victory, big or small.

For decades, Jamie worked as a salesman for a building wholesaler, where his friendly personality and genuine care for people left a lasting impression. But his greatest legacy will always be the love of the game he shared — the laughter on the sidelines, the lessons he taught as a coach, and the friendships built through a shared passion for sports.

Family and friends are invited to pay their respects on Friday November 7th from 11 AM until 12 Noon at The Riverdale 2901 Watson Blvd. Endwell, NY 13760.

Jeffrey Dillard

Jeffrey Dillard, beloved father, brother, nephew and friend, passed away unexpectedly on October 29 ,2025 leaving behind a legacy of love, laughter, and devotion. He was a proud  and dedicated father to his two beautiful daughters, whom he adored beyond measure. He never missed a chance to brag about their accomplishments and the joy they brought to his life.

Jeff worked for the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), where his compassion and sense of humor touched the lives of those around him. Outside of work, he was in an avid fan of professional wrestling  along with his favorite wrestling buddy Kayla Dillard  ( aka beautiful baby)and a loyal supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles. His all-time favorite football player was his daughter, Kimberly Dillard, who held the top spot in his heart both on and off the field.

Taken from us far too soon, Jeff will be remembered for his big heart, his love for his family, and his ability to make others laugh even in difficult times. Though our hearts ache with his loss, we find comfort in knowing he is now at peace.

He will be deeply missed and forever loved.

The family will receive friends at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY 13760 on Friday November 7, 2025 from 5:00 PM till 6:30 PM. Pastor Ernest Collins will have a prayer service Friday evening at 6:30 PM.

William T. Powell

William T. Powell, 72, of Endwell, NY, after a brave battle with Parkinson’s Disease for 16 years, went to be with the Lord, his mother, father, and brother early Thursday morning, October 30th, 2025. At the time of his passing, he was surrounded by family members and loved ones. Bill’s joy for life and extreme positivity will be truly missed. His strength and perseverance was and is an inspiration to his entire family and anyone who met him. He is survived by Ann, his wife of 38 years and his daughters, Paige and Brooke Powell, and their dog, Chanel. He is predeceased by his loving family members, mother, Betty Powell, father, William J. Powell, brother, Michael Powell, and brother-in-law Michael Quartararo. He is also survived by his in-laws, Jennie Quartararo, Bunny Quartararo, and Gina Garbarino (Joe Garbarino); his siblings and spouses, Marilyn Powell, Kevin and Janet Powell, Vince and Barb Powell, Craig and Theresa Powell, and Maureen and Jeff Zimmer; 15 nieces and nephews, Sarah, Katie, and Charlotte, Alexis and Mikayla, Kelly, Kimberly, and Kelsey, Jason and Jessica, Nathaniel, David and Vanessa, Jerrod and Valerie. Bill was a graduate of Maine-Endwell High School in Endwell, Binghamton University’s School of Management, University of Scranton’s Masters of Business Administration program, and Cortland’s School District Leader Certificate of Advanced Study program. He worked at IBM Corporation for 18 years and BOCES as Director of Business Operations for 14 years, before he retired and became a BOCES board member for 6 years. Bill was also an active board member on the Maine Endwell Board of Education for more than 10 years. Even with all his amazing professional accomplishments, his number one focus was always his wife and daughters. Bill was an avid runner, running four marathons and one being the New York City Marathon where he proposed to his loving wife Ann, after the marathon. Bill was the biggest supporter of his two daughters, especially when it came to dance competitions, never missing a performance. His love and devotion towards his wife and children was like no other, with that being his sole purpose in life. His kind, loving and gentle soul will truly be missed by everyone who knew him. 

Funeral services will be held Thursday November 6th at 11:00 AM at The Church of the Holy Family. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at the church on Thursday November 6th from 9:30 AMuntil time of Mass.

Edith Marie (Sgobba) George

Edith Marie (Sgobba) George, 86, of Endicott, NY, passed away on October 28, 2025, in Syracuse, NY.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband of 61 years, Joseph George; her sister, Sandra Vanvestrout; and her parents, Susan (Ziemba) Sgobba and Paul Sgobba.

She is survived by her son, Michael George (Carol Wendler); her grandsons, Brendan (Kristi) George, Damian (Katie) George, and Cameron George; and her cherished great-grandchildren, Charlie Jo George, Maxwell George, and Teddy George. She is also survived by many loved nieces, nephews, and cousins who each held a special place in her heart.

Edith Marie George was the heart and the light of her family - a selfless and loving wife, mother, grandmother, and friend whose biggest joy came from caring for others. She created a warm and welcoming home, raising her son with pure unconditional love and supporting her husband throughout their 61 years of marriage. Known as Edie, Aunt Edie, Grandma, Momma, or to some “One-Putt Edie,” she lived a full life with a bright smile and a contagious laugh, always curious, always positive, and always ready to cheer on the Yankees, NY Giants, and her favorite golfer, Jordan Spieth. She loved golf, bowling, tennis, dancing, and any chance to enjoy time with the people she loved. Her grandsons grew up wrapped in her warm love and endless energy - being driven to golf courses and skate parks, exploring trails in the woods, flying kites at the school, or diving through kiddie pools she insisted on filling with hot water even if it made Grandpa mad. Edie gave generously of her time, her energy, and her heart. She poured love into every day, and her family will forever cherish the memories of a woman who made life happier, lighter, and fuller just by being in it.

Funeral services will be held Monday November 3rd at 11:00 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY.Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Monday November 3rd from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, donations may be made to the Central Association for the Blind and Visually Impaired in honor of her incredible gift of a great-grandson, Maxwell George.

Frances P. Curatolo

Frances P. Curatolo, 91, passed away peacefully on October 20, 2025, in Endicott, New York, the town where she was born and spent her life. Born on July 27, 1934, in Endicott, Frances was a lifelong resident of the community she cherished. She was the daughter of Calorgeo and Paola Curatolo and grew up surrounded by a large and loving family. 

Frances was known for her warm heart and generous spirit. She found joy in simple pleasures—especially cooking, baking and crocheting—and shared her talents freely with those around her. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of home-cooked meals, lovingly prepared for family gatherings and special occasions. Her hands were rarely still, always busy creating beautiful crocheted pieces that became treasured keepsakes for many. Family meant everything to Frances. She delighted in spending time with her many nieces and nephews, offering them not only delicious food but also unwavering love and support throughout their lives. Her presence brought comfort and joy to countless family moments over the years. 
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Calorgeo and Paola Curatolo; her sisters Agatha Burks, Leona Davidson, and Anna Popelka; and her brothers Mitch Curatolo and Joseph Curatolo.                                 

Frances is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Who will carry forward her memory with affection and gratitude. She is also remembered fondly by her brother-in-law and sister-in-law. 

May her memory bring comfort to all who knew and loved her. A Memorial Service will be held on November 1, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Northminster Presbyterian Church 711 Farm to Market Rd. Endwell. Burial will follow on November 1, 2025, at 11:30 AM at Vestal Hills Memorial Park  3997 Vestal Rd. Vestal, NY.

Mary Ann S. Bosket

Mary Ann S. Bosket,84, life resident of the Tri-City area, passed away Tuesday, October 21, 2025, at Loretto Nursing Home in Syracuse. Mary Ann was born to the late Joseph and Mary (Celetka) Selnekovic and was a 1958 graduate of Union Endicott High School. She retired in 2001 after more than 30 years as an assistant manager with Visions Federal Credit Union in Johnson City. Mary Ann was a communicant of St. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church where she volunteered with their women’s club and served as a Eucharistic Minister. Mary Ann was predeceased by her husband of 38 years, Richard Bosket, in 1998.

She is survived by five children: Karen (James) Baranyk of Binghamton, Theresa (William) Rusnak of Binghamton, Ron (Lori) Bosket of Syracuse, Mike (Anthony Shallenberger) Bosket of Manhattan, and James (Shelly) Bosket of Clark Summit, PA; her siblings: Dorothy, Joanne, Thomas, Roberta, and Patricia; eight grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews. Also mourning her loss is her partner of recent years, Glenn Hayes.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Mary Ann’s memory may be made to NYU Langone Dementia Caregiver Family Support Program, c/o Nicole Ravelo, One Park Ave., 8th Floor, Room 206, NY, NY 10016. Calling Hours will be Thursday, November 6th, from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, 1905 Watson Blvd, Endicott, NY. A Funeral Mass will begin on Friday, November 7th, at 10:00 am at St. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, 148 Clinton St, Binghamton. Private burial will be in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell.

Judith Hunter-Beck

Judith Hunter-Beck, 78, of Friendsville, PA, passed away on Oct 11, 2025. Judith is predeceased by her mother and father, William and Irene Jenkins, son Robert Watkins, and daughter Tammy Jean Hunter. She is survived by her loving Husband of 28 years, John Beck; her sons, Bill Watkins (Kay), Bruce Hunter (Sandy), Chris Beck (Sarah), and Derek Beck (Tara); her grandchildren Kyle Watkins, Connor Watkins, Elliana Hunter, Mela Beck, Koa Beck, and several nieces and nephews. Judith attended Grace Point Church. A Celebration of Life will be held at The Elks Club in Vestal on November 9th at 2:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Kidney Foundation.

Frank J. Salmieri

Frank J. Salmieri, 80, of Endwell, passed away peacefully at home 10/21/2025. He was predeceased by his parents Rocco and Mary (Zwolinski) Salmieri, sisters Arelene and Claudia.  He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years Nancy, daughter Claudette Hayes, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and nieces and nephews.  Frank retired from the Air National Guard as a sergeant with 39 years of service.  He was retired from SUNY Binghamton.  Frank was an avid hunter and fisherman, and a member of the Sons of Italy Endicott, and also a member of American Legion Post #1700.  
At Franks request, services will be private.

Paul Sieben

Paul Sieben, 78 passed away peacefully at home on Monday October 20th with his wife by his side. Paul was predeceased by his brother Bob Sieben. Paul is survived by his loving wife, Linda M Sieben. He is also survived by three stepsons Thomas (Tonya) Rackett, Johnathan (Nicchia) Rackett, and Philip (Staci) Gardner. As well as eight grandchildren Victoria, Johnnie (Heather), Brittney, Joseph, Hannah, Maddie, Jacob, Philip and two great granddaughters Paisley and Lilah. Also, survived by his sister in law Joann Sieben, nieces and a nephew. Paul worked many years at IBM and then began his own business Paul’s Sandblasting that he proudly ran for about 25 years until retiring.

Funeral services will be held on Friday October 24th at 11:00 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY 13760. Entombment will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends at the Pucedo Funeral Home on Friday from 10:00 AM until time of service at 11:00 AM. 

Margaret R. Blazey

Margaret R. Blazey, 80, passed peacefully on October 14, 2025 at Bridgewater Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing, after a lengthy illness. She was born in Endicott, New York, the daughter of Albert Sr. and Rose (Soltis) Blazey. She was a homemaker and enjoyed sewing and knitting items and donating them to various charities. She was known for giving back to her community. She was very generous with her time at St. Joseph’s Church and was a lifetime parishioner.

She is survived by sisters, Donna (David) Sedor and Marie (Bob) Walters and brothers Albert Jr. (Mary) Blazey and Michael (Denise) Blazey as well as many nieces, nephews and cousins.

A funeral mass will be held on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 11 AM at St. Joseph’s Church, 207 Hayes Ave., Endicott, NY 13760.

The family requests that flowers be omitted and donations be made in her memory to St. Joseph’s Church.

Lisa Marie Thayne

Lisa Marie Thayne; a beloved wife, mother, sister, friend and grandmother, born on March 10, 1963 is now at home with Jesus Christ her Savior. 

She was predeceased by her father Arnold Olsen, her mother Dorris Olsen, and her brother Anders (Andy) Olsen. She leaves behind her loving husband Kevin, and children, Kian, Noah, and Anna. She is also survived by her siblings Karen, Randi, and brother Christopher, as well as her cherished niece and nephews. 

Lisa was born in Port Chester, New York and spent her early years growing up in a charming home in Mamaroneck, New York. She then moved with her family to Greene, New York, where she met many lifelong friends and found the Lord. She always had a heart for education, and after graduating from Greene High School she attended Broome Community College, followed by Oneonta State and lastly, received her Masters degree from Cortland State. She loved her career as an elementary teacher for nearly a decade until the birth of her own children.

Lisa met her husband Kevin at a local Christian coffeehouse. When they married, she gained a wonderful son, Kian and then had Noah and Anna. She ultimately gave up teaching for a higher calling to raise her children. Lisa transitioned to homeschooling her children and utilized her experience in education, becoming heavily involved in the local homeschooling community. She tutored students through local co-ops and helped many families with the education of their children. Her zeal for life and faith in Jesus was contagious. Lisa’s greatest desire was to be still and wait on God. She had much wisdom and spent countless hours ministering to those in need. God was always first; followed by her family, then everything else. She will be missed more than tongue can tell. 

Lisa’s family will be holding a celebration of life on October 25, 2025 at 2 PM at the Crossroads of Life Church at 18 Exchange St. Binghamton, NY. We invite all who knew her to come and share some stories about Lisa as we celebrate a life well lived

James “Jim” Stephens

James “Jim” Stephens, 55, went to join his father suddenly, yet peacefully on Saturday, October 11, 2025 after enduring many years of debilitating pain from a work-related injury. Jim never let that take away from his 30-years of service as an auto technician with Feduke Ford-Lincoln. Jim is predeceased by his father, Jerry Stephens, who was also his mentor sharing in his knowledge and love of cars. That passion would be passed along to his boys Brandon and Jarrett. Brandon continues Jim’s hard working mentality alongside his wife, Alyssa and their two daughters Maliyah and Natalie. These granddaughters to Jim, brought him such great joy and pride. Jarrett, too, carries on Jim’s hardworking nature along with their shared interest in all things cars–supporting him, caring for him, and working alongside Jim in every capacity up until the very end. Jim’s other joys are his Dachshunds, Josie and Shelby (named after a model of Mustang cars, his favorite thing in life to drive). His beloved wife of 30 years, Jen Stephens (Pecka), will have those pups to comfort her as she mourns the loss of her husband, partner, friend, and love. By Jen’s side, are those whom Jim is survived by. Including his mother, Nancy Stephens who will feel the loss of Jim immensely. The only good to come out of his injury was the time he was given to enjoy the simpler things in life. Baking side by side with his mom, the family’s favorite—his infamous apple pie! Joining in this loss is his brother, Jeff Stephens, wife Jill, and their daughter Jenna and Jim’s sister, Laura Decosse (Stephens), her husband Dave, and their daughters Karissa and Ashlyn. We are all grateful for the beautiful fall evening recently spent together celebrating Nancy’s 80th Birthday. Just one day before his passing Jim was able to enjoy a drive with his wife and mother to visit his father’s gravesite which will be Jim’s final resting place as well. They are together again, the way a father and son should be, and with this we are left with comfort. Instead of flowers please consider a donation to the Broome County Council of Churches CHOW pantry: Community Baptist Church 743 Chenango Street Binghamton, NY 13901 and join us in saying goodbye to Jim at the Pucedo Funeral Home, 1905 Watson Blvd, Endicott, NY on Thursday, October 16th from 5-7pm, with a service immediately following. Burial will be Friday, October 17th at 11:30am at the Nicholson Cemetery located on Harding Ave, Nicholson, PA 18446.

Penny L. Hirst

Penny L. Hirst, 77, of Apalachin, passed away on Monday, October 6 th , 2025. She was predeceased by her parents, Robert and Iva Ayers, and James H. and Janet Hirst. She is survived their children Sheri Hirst Johnson, Janet (Michael) Hirst Springfield, and James R. Hirst; their
grandchildren Allison (Kyle Doyle) and Keller Springfield; Cameron, Tiffany, and Patrick (Giulianna) Johnson; Wyatt Hirst, and two great-grandchildren McKenna Doyle and Mia Johnson. She had several sisters and brothers (predeceased by Darla; Robert, Harlan; Sue, Robert; Wanda, Beverly, Shirley, Sarah, Barbara, and Linda and is survived by Robin, Doug, Sharon; Bob, Pam; Randy, and Dixie). She had several nieces and nephews as well as many friends from AES that she considered family.

Penny graduated from Union Endicott High School in 1967 and retired after 33 years from Apalachin Elementary School. She was often recognized by her former students around town. She loved attending school, sporting, and music events over the years of her children and grandchildren, and especially loved road trips with Jim to discover new places and restaurants. She is fondly remembered for baking for family get togethers over the years and enjoyed decorating their home for the holidays. She was well loved and respected by so many and will be sadly missed.

There will be no formal funeral services.

Kenneth John Berndt

Kenneth John Berndt, 71 of Endicott, NY. passed away on Tuesday October 7, 2025 at Guthrie Lourdes Hospital after a short illness. He was predeceased by his parents Frank and Lillian Berndt; his sister Karen Franklin. He is survived by his loving wife of thirteen years Irene Berndt; his son Keith Berndt (Carla); his step-sons Mark Harris (Jen), Kris Harris (Amy); his step-daughter Dawn Gonzales; also several grandchildren; his sister Kathy Jenny (Walt); his brothers Kim Ekstrom (Marie), Kevin Ekstrom (Samantha), Donald Berndt (Pam).
There will be no formal services at this time.

James Edward York

Endicott- James Edward York (Jimmy) 72 of Endicott died October 4, 2025, his loving family gathered by his side. He was a devoted husband to his childhood sweetheart for 50 years, Mary Ann and a loving father to his two sons Richard and Andrew (Stephanie), 4 grandchildren Bryson, Grace, Hazel and Rowan, 1 brother, David and two sisters, Nancy (Waldin) and Judy, 9 sisters-in-laws, 7 brothers-in-laws, many nieces and nephews and their beloved dog, Beau. He was predeceased by his parents, Edward and Helen York. He was a Motion Control Engineer at Universal Instruments Corporation for over 30 years awarded several government patents. He was a graduate of St. Ambrose School ‘67, Seton Catholic High School ‘71 and SUNY Broome’73 and has been a member of St. Ambrose Catholic Church and Church of the Holy Family over his lifetime. In grade school and high school, he was well known for his skills as a point guard in basketball and a winger in high school soccer. He and his wife loved classic rock music, boating, photography, animals, visiting wineries, celebrating holidays and trips to the ocean. Funeral services arranged by Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc will be held at Church of the Holy Family on Wednesday, Oct 8 where the family will receive visitors from 9:30-11 AM followed by a Funeral Mass at 11. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier, 212 N McKinley Ave., Endicott, NY 13760 or Broome County Humane Society, 167 Conklin Ave., Binghamton, NY 13903.

Michael M. Lennon

Michael M. Lennon, 73, of Endicott, NY, peacefully passed away with his loving wife by his side on Saturday September 27, 2025. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 40 years, Linda; children Michael, Matt (Maria), Sean (Rebecca) and Kali (Steven); grandchildren Michael, Paislee, Frannie, Jack and Sophie. Michael was known for his witty sense of humor, selflessness and unbeatable intellect. He retired from Lockheed Martin after 35 dedicated years of service. In his free time, Michael was an avid lover of sports and played in a local golf league with his sons weekly. He also loved to landscape his home beautifully and share this love with others. He brought a light into every person's life that he touched. His family meant everything to him, which is reflected in how much he will be missed. A private service will be held at the family's request. Memorial donations may be made in Michael's name to the Broome County Humane Society: 167 Conklin Ave, Binghamton, NY 13903. The family wishes to send a special thank you to the staff at the UHS Wilson Hospital, especially to the ICU, for their care and compassion. 

Edward Ferencik

Edward Ferencik, 96, of Endicott, NY, went peacefully into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, September 27, surrounded by his loving family.

Ed was predeceased by his loving wife of sixty-seven years, Mary (Soucy) Ferencik; his parents, Frantisek and Sidonia Ferencik; and brothers and sisters - Louis, Richard, Paul, Joseph, Frank, Emil, John, Timothy, Ethel Rossi and Pauline Melvin.

He is survived by his eight children; Frank Ferencik, John (Julia) Ferencik, Edward, Jr. (Laurie) Ferencik, Mary (Gene) Perry, Susan (Curtis) Parvin, Patti (Tony) Maione, Timothy Ferencik, Theresa (Doug) Pelton; sixteen grandchildren, Laura (Derek) Cordilione, Dan (Bridget) Ferencik, David (Samantha) Ferencik, Emily (Gerald) Pierce, Brittany Ferencik, Ed Jr. (Reana) Ferencik, Robert Ferencik, Thomas Ferencik, Anthony (Katie) Maione, Nicholas Maione, Vince Maione, Christopher (Courtney) Perry, Elizabeth (Vinny) Pardi, Courtney (David) Youst, Jacob (Leah) Parvin, Chelsey (Dennis) Moore, and twenty-eight great-grandchildren.

Born April 15, 1929, Ed was immensely proud to have been the first baby to be baptized at St. Joseph’s Church in Endicott, where he was an altar server and remained a faithful member throughout his long life.  After growing up in Endicott and serving in the Marines, he attended Champlain College, where he played football and starred on offense, defense, and special teams – never coming off the field during games. He was also on the college boxing team and once beat the New England Golden Gloves champ.  But most importantly, Champlain is where he met the love of his life – Mary. 

Married in 1953, they began a life together, raising their family in their Catholic faith.  Ed, like Mary, was devoted to his children and endlessly taught them by example to live in their faith.  His love extended equally to his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and his constant presence and legacy will live on through them and for generations.

While raising his family, he had a long career as a teacher in the Maine-Endwell School District and painted houses in the summers.  After retiring from teaching, he became a maintenance man for the Bank of New York.  He was also a Catholic faith formation teacher, a peer counselor, a prison minister, a literacy volunteer, and a worker at the St. Ambrose kitchen.  Before meals, he would offer his signature blessing, "May God's blessings of His love and grace be upon you and may He remain forever in your heart." 

Ed was the ultimate role model of a man of faith.  He would sometimes return home without socks or a shirt because he had given his to a homeless person, and he often had to rush to his teaching job because he had spent too much time shoveling sidewalks in the early morning hours for his elderly neighbors on Robble Ave.  A member of the Third Order Franciscans, he indeed preached the gospel at all times, and when necessary, he used (beautiful) words.  He would often say, “To do Your will, oh God, is my delight,” while he joyfully served others.

Our family would like to thank Dr. Perry and also the wonderful caregivers at United Methodist Hilltop and Mercy House for their support and comfort. 

Funeral services will be held Friday, October 3rd, 11 a.m. at St. Joseph's Church, 207 Hayes Avenue, Endicott.  Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City.  The family will receive friends at St. Joseph's Church, from 9:30 a.m. until time of service at 11 a.m.  In lieu of flowers, kindly consider extending a hand to the homeless as Ed often did, or donations to the Food Pantry, 202 Garfield Ave., Endicott, NY, or to Mercy House, 212 N. McKinley Ave., Endicott, NY 13760.  

Ronald M. Hovancik

Ronald M. Hovancik, 90 of Endicott, NY, passed away on Wednesday September 17, 2025, at Mercy House of the Southern Tier. He was predeceased by his parents, Charles and Mary Hovancik; his brothers, Charles (Patty) Hovancik, Dick Hovancik, James Hovancik; his son, Steve Hovancik; his grandson, Joe McAfee. He is survived by his loving wife of 28 years, Dottie (Welch) Hovancik; six children, Ron (Carol), Shelly, Michael (Mitzi), Frank, Mike (Chris), Pati (Steve); sixteen grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren and several great-great-grandchildren; his sister-in-law, Madaline Hovancik.

Funeral services will be held Friday September 26th at 11:00 AM at St. Ambrose Church 203 Washington Ave. Endicott, NY. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery, Johnson City, NY. The family will receive friends at St. Ambrose Church on Friday September 26th from 10:00 AM until time of Mass at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy in his memory may be made to Mercy House of the Southern Tier 212 N. McKinley Ave. Endicott, NY 13760.

Emilia M (Mimi) Vitale

Emilia M (Mimi) Vitale 94 formerly of Endicott passed away Sunday September 14, 2025. She was predeceased by her parents Peter and Anna DelBrocco, her Husband of 65 years Robert, and her son Ronald Vitale. She is survived by her daughter Cathy Vitale of Syracuse NY, two grandchildren Danielle and Matthew of California, one sister and two brothers, Marion Johnson of Colorado, Peter and Anthony DelBrocco of California. She was previously a member of St Anthony of Padua Church Endicott. Emilia was a dedicated wife and mother who loved to crochet and dance even in her later years. We would like to thank the staff at Brookdale Alzheimer’s and Dementia facility in Fayetteville NY for their loving care of Emilia over the past 3 1/2 years.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, September 20th at 10:30 AM at the Leon Pucedo Funeral Home, Inc. 1905 Watson Blvd. Endicott, NY. Entombment will follow in Riverhurst Cemetery, Endwell, NY. The family will receive friends on Saturday at the Pucedo Funeral Home from 9:30 AM until time of service at 10:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association Central New York Chapter, 441 West Kirkpatrick St. Syracuse, NY 13760.