Obituaries

John M. Lew

Jul 04, 2025

Lew, John M., July 3, 2025 Age 62. Loving father of J. Robert Davis (Stephanie Bates-Davis), grandfather of Madelynn Davis, long-time companion of Susan Davis-Banks and stepfather of Shawn Davis-Banks. John grew up on Grand Island, son of the late Alfred Lew and Dorothy (Sokolowski). He is survived by his brothers Frederic, Thomas, Gary (Nancy), Peter (Sandra), James, and sisters JoAnne Howard (Patrick), and Judith (Sidney), cousins, and many friends. We cherish our memories of Johns humor, his dedication to his work and family, and his love of music. Friends and family are invited to a Celebration of Johns life at Trinity Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd. Grand Island, on Saturday, July 19th at 11AM. In lieu of flowers, please donate in Johns name to the SPCA or American Cancer Society.

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Diane J. Cope

Jun 21, 2025

Diane J. Cope, of Grand Island, born 1935, passed away June 21, 2025, a loving, devoted wife of 60 years of the late D. Thomas Cope. Their legacy includes their children: Ron (the late Patti) Cope, Karen (Jerry) Knight, Cheryl (Steve) Surprenant and the late Mike (survived by wife Trish) Cope,  as well as 16 grandchildren, 29 great grandchildren, and one great great grandchild. Diane was marked by quiet strength, hard work, and love for her family. There was be a private family graveside service. Donations can be made in her memory to Hospice Buffalo.

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Mark E. Leffler

Jun 16, 2025

Of Grand Island, Husband of Dixie (Dunbar) Leffler. Father of Jillian (Ryan) Gott and Jacob (Jenna) Leffler. Brother of Jonathan and Matthew (Maureen) Leffler. Mark is also survived by a niece and a nephew. Friends may call Thursday from 4-8 with a Funeral Service at 8 at Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd. 

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Charles Alfred Blowers, Sr.

Jun 14, 2025

Charles Alfred Blowers, Sr, 86, of Grand Island went to be with his Lord on Saturday, June 14, 2025. He was born July 5, 1938, in Schenectady, NY, to Grant and Katherine Blowers. Charles served in the Air Force from 1958 to 1962, and married Jeannie (Comstock) Blowers on June 15, 1963. He graduated from Gordon College in 1966, and worked as a research chemist until his retirement in 1999. Charles served in his churches as a deacon and vocalist, and was a life-long lover of riding his Harley-Davidson motorcycles. He is survived by three children, Chris (Christine) (NY), John (Christine) (TX), and James (Jean) (IL); seven grandchildren, Craig, Clarrisa, and Caleb (NY), Nathaniel (China), Ben and Emily (IL), and Bryan (TX); three great grandchildren, Daniel, Max, and Eileen (NY). His family and friends mourn the loss of him, but rejoice that he is where he belongs with his Heavenly Father! A memorial service will be held at Bible Presbyterian Church, 1650 Love Rd. Grand Island at 11 AM on Wednesday June 18th. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Peniel Bible Conference in Lake Luzerne, NY. Interment will be in Sweetman Cemetery, Charlton, NY.

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Nina A. Tortorice

Jun 09, 2025

Nina A. (nee Insana) Tortorice, Born August 3, 1946, entered into eternal rest June 9, 2025, a Grand Island, resident. Beloved wife of Samuel R. Tortorice for 57 years. Loving mother of Kimberly Dynko and Nicole (Jeffrey) Sullivan. Proud Nana to her grandchildren Ryan Dynko, Sophia Sullivan and Zachary Sullivan who were her pride and joy, and deceased Brooke Dynko and Kyle Dynko. Daughter of the late Nicholas and Mary (nee Provenziano) Insana. Dearest sister-in-law of Joyce (Charles) Dean. Also survived by many cousins and godchildren. Nina was born and raised on the west side of Buffalo, where she attended Public School 73 and attended Grover Cleveland High School. After college graduation, Nina immediately began her teaching career at St. Florian Catholic Elementary School in Buffalo. While Sam was in the service, Nina taught at schools on the bases of Ft. Knox, Kentucky and Ft. Benning, Georgia. Nina returned to teach at St. Florian until she left to raise her children. She worked part time at Tops Friendly Markets as a baker and cashier, and occasionally helped at Jack and Jill Community Preschool on Grand Island. In 1988, Nina took over as its Director and Teacher until she retired to take care of her dad. Nina was a Daughter, Wife, Mother, Nana, Teacher and Treasured friend. Nina accomplished all these roles with love and a passion for life. Beyond the love of her family, Nina cherished her Catholic faith. She was also a member of the Womens club of Grand Island. Family and friends may call on Friday June 20 from 4-8 PM at the Kaiser Funeral Home, 1950 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, June 21 at St. Stephens Church at 9:30 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association of WNY.

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