Perkins-Ames Funeral Home

12/11/2025

Stanley-Alice Marie Phelps, age 70, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on November 4, 1955, in Oil City, Pennsylvania, she was the daughter of Delores Watson and Charles Stahlman. Alice later moved to New York, where she built a life rooted in dedication, hard work, and deep love for her family.

Alice was a proud entrepreneur and the owner of Alice’s Cleaning Service for more than 35 years. She was well-known and respected in her community for her strong work ethic, care for her clients, and unwavering reliability. She also co-owned The Stanley Exchange consignment shop with her sister and best friend, Pat Whitbeck, for over 20 years—an endeavor she ran with pride, discipline, and heart.

Alice shared 47 years of marriage with her husband, Bill, the love of her life and her constant support. She was a devoted mother to her children Tim, Kathy (Brad), and Connie (Roger) Groome, and a proud nana to Gracie, Andre, Evelyn, Isaiah, and Aliyah Groome.

Outside of her work and family, Alice found joy in the simple but meaningful things that made life full. She was an avid gardener who took pride in her flowers and yard. She loved games of any kind—especially if they involved a bit of competition—and she never turned down a chance to win. And for anyone who knew her well, nothing lit her up quite like a trip to the casino. Gambling was her favorite pastime, and she cherished the laughter and memories made on those outings. And as many will remember, she was also a loyal New York Yankees fan, cheering them on with enthusiasm.

Alice was known for her big heart, sharp wit, contagious smile and memorable sense of humor. A true spitfire, she brought laughter wherever she went and cared deeply for everyone around her. Even during her illness, her greatest concern was always the well-being of those she loved.

Alice is survived by her sisters Laurie, Pat (Bill), Terri, Janet (Adam), and Amy (Matt); sisters- and brothers-in-law Carol (Dick), Connie (Pete), and Shirley (Dave); and sisters-in-law Sandy (the late Bob) and Sue (the late Mike); along with several nieces and nephews and many lifelong friends. She was predeceased by her parents, Delores Stillings and Charles Stahlman; her in-laws, Don and Marie Phelps; brothers Bob, Mike, and Jim Stahlman and her nephews Bobby and Marc Stahlman.

A celebration of Alice’s life is planned for Saturday, January 3 at Hotel Canandaigua (205 Lakeshore Dr., Canandaigua, from 12 – 4 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Alice’s memory are invited to contribute to the GoFundMe https://www.gofundme.com/f/join-us-in-supporting-bill-and-alice?attribution_id=sl:8f496db3-7c80-49d2-b715-be3df842b9b5&utm_campaign=p_lico+update+share&utm_medium=customer&utm_source=facebook created to help support Bill as he transitions to living with his daughter and her family. Donations will help cover continued rehabilitation and home modifications needed to ensure his comfort, safety, and care.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Alice’s Family.

12/07/2025

Town of Seneca/Geneva-Thomas J. Bush, age 66, passed away on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Rochester General Hospital.

Honoring Tom’s wishes there will be no services at this time.

Memorial contributions in Tom’s name can be made to the Ontario County Fair Draft Horse Barn.

Tom was born on March 11, 1959, a son of James D. and Leona E. Washburn Bush. His passion in life was truck driving, working for many years for Consolidated Freight and then becoming a self-employed truck driver. Tom enjoyed supporting his daughters at horse shows, whether it be trucking their equipment, holding a lead when needed or simply being there to watch. He was a member of the NYS Pageant of Steam, always taking a couple tractors to the show.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Lisa (Rich Scott) Bush and Amanda (Bill Carson) Bush; his mother, Leona “Peewee” Bush; brother, Donald (Christine) Bush; sister, Dorinda (John) Engert; many nieces and nephews including Samantha Bush and Jesse (Joe) Lambert who where his primary caregivers.

Tom was predeceased by his father, James Bush.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Tom’s Family.

11/23/2025

Geneva- Doris June Earl, age 89, passed away on Saturday, November 22, 2025.

Honoring Doris’ wishes, services will be private. Burial will be in Bellona Cemetery with her husband, Henry.

Memorial contributions can be made to Ontario Yates Hospice, 756 Pre-Emption Rd., Geneva, NY 14456.

Doris was born on June 1, 1936, a daughter of the late Clifford and Martha (Fox) DeWick. She grew up on the family farm in Middlesex. After high school she worked for several years at the post office, before she devoted her life to taking care of her family. Doris was a member of the 4-H Club. She enjoyed flowers, sewing and crocheting and loved country music.

Doris is survived by two sons, James H. Earl and Clifford (Terese) Earl, grandsons, Cody (Isobel Heck) Earl and Collin (Amber) Earl; great-granddaughter, Enri Earl as well as nieces and nephews.

Doris was predeceased by her parents; her husband of 62 years, E. Henry Earl and a sister, Mary E. (Duane C.) Shay.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Doris’ Family.

11/21/2025

Geneva/Penn Yan - Shirley Anne Catlin, 81, passed away on Wednesday, November 19th, 2025.

Friends may call on Monday, Dec. 1, from 2-4 & 6-8 p.m. at the Perkins-Ames Funeral Home in Gorham. A funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 2, at 11 a.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Gorham Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation, 1000 Elmwood Ave. Rochester, NY 14620.

Shirley was born on July 15, 1944, a daughter of the late George and Lillian Breed Hopkins. She was a 1962 graduate of Penn Yan Academy and a 1963 graduate of Freeman Business School. Upon graduation Shirley went to Washinton D.C and worked for the Federal Government C.I.A. Division where she worked as a Secretary. Over the years Shirley worked for the Yates County Treasurer’s office, Iversen Lumber Yard (where she met her husband Bob) and Ferro Corp. She enjoyed playing pool and belonged to a bowling league.

Shirley was a member of the Class of 1962 Reunion Committee for several years. She was also a member of the ’62 Girls where they would meet once a month for lunch.

Along with her husband Robert, she enjoyed doing various activities at the campgrounds they would stay at and watching NASCAR, even going to the Daytona 500. Bob and Shirley also went on several cruises with members from the campground.
Shirley was a member of the Penn Yan D.O.E where she was a past president.

Shirley is survived by her children, Robert Catlin, Jr., Denise Egburtson, Dru-Anne (Matthew) Hartley and Corey Catlin; adopted by heart children, Earl and Nancy Mamed; grandchildren, Cassie (Matt) Richards, Tracy Hall, Stevie Hicks, Matt (Tiffany Koson) Catlin, Joe (Jennah) Catlin, Jennie (Decoda) Riggin, Zo-Marie Hartley, Joshua Catlin and Samantha Catlin; great grandchildren, Tyler Koson, Daymeon Richards, Hailey Richards, Rori Hall, Dawson Riggin, Kara Riggin, Karson Riggin, Ella Riggin, Elizabeth Catlin and Cohen Riggin; brother, James (Patricia) Hopkins; sister-in-law, Mary Lou Yerkes; special sister-cousins, Sharon (Larry) Larsen and family and Linda (Mike) Folts and family; several nieces and nephews; many cousins; as well as her friends of the ’62 Girls Club.

Shirley was predeceased by her husband Robert “Bob”; granddaughter, Kayleigh Hall; daughter-in-law, Terry Catlin; and brother-in-law, Glenn Yerkes.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to the Catlin Family.

11/20/2025

Middlesex- Lynn M. Lafler, age 73, passed away at home on November 19, 2025.

Honoring Lynn’s wishes there will be no services.

Memorial contributions in Lynn’s name can be made to Middlesex Hose Company, P.O. Box 145, Middlesex, NY 14507.

Lynn was born on July 3, 1952, a daughter of the late Raymond A. and Mary Waterman Lafler, Sr. She was employed as a teachers aid for Marcus Whitman Central School. Lynn loved the outdoors and spending time in nature. She enjoyed animals especially cats. In her younger life she dedicated many years to the Middlesex Hose Company.

Lynn is survived by her son, Heath Rought; grandchildren, Alex Eaves, Hayden Rought and Connor Rought; and 2 brothers, Punch (Shirley) Lafler and Mark Lafler.

Lynn was predeceased by her parents.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Lynn’s Family.

The Perkins-Ames Funeral Home takes pride in responding with compassion, respect, dignity and the utmost quality to families in their time of need. They listen to families and respond with personalized services.

11/20/2025

Eldon Kenneth Hutchinson of St. Clair, MO departed this life in St. Clair, MO on Sunday, November 9, 2025, having reached the age of eighty-seven years, eleven months and twenty-three days.

Eldon was born in Geneva, NY on November 16, 1937, son of Kenneth James Hutchinson and Ruth Edith Hutchinson nee Christensen. On August 13, 1960 he was united in marriage to Carole June Sweezy and five children came to bless this union.

Eldon is survived by his wife, Carole Hutchinson of St. Clair, MO; by his children, John Eric Hutchinson of Rochester, NY, Eldon Kenneth Hutchinson, Jr. and wife, Lucinda, of Worcester, MA, Pamela Jo Hinson and husband, Lee, of Union, MO, Amy Jo Weber of Union, MO and Jeffrey Michael Hutchinson of Canandaigua, NY; by his grandchildren, Kaitlyn Lambert Hutchinson and husband, Justin Sparnaay, Lucas Hinson and wife, Morgan, Sarah Norton and husband, Hayden, Isabel Weber and Taylor Hutchinson; by two great-grandchildren, Leland and Rosalie Hinson, other relatives and many friends.

Eldon was preceded in death by his parents, Kenneth and Ruth Hutchinson.

Eldon was a Christian and member of First Presbyterian Church in Union, MO, where he served as a church elder. While in New York he was a Rotary member and also served as an elder in his church there. He was proud to have served his country in the United States Army, receiving his honorable discharge in June of 1964. After his discharge from the Army he went to work dairy farming on his father’s farm, a farm he would eventually buy from him. He was at one time a foster parent, member of a bowling league and traveled to all fifty states. Eldon also enjoyed woodworking, feeding and watching the birds and studying genealogy. What meant most to him was time spent with family. The love they shared and many precious memories they created will be cherished by them all forever.
A kind and loving husband, father, father-in-law, grandfather, great-grandfather and treasured friend, he will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved him.

Friends may call from 10 a.m. until 12 noon on Saturday, Dec. 6, at the Seneca #9 Presbyterian Church, where funeral services will follow at 12 noon, with Rev. Amy Loving Austin officiating. Interment with full military honors will take place following the service at Seneca No. 9 Cemetery in Stanley, NY. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to the Hutchinson Family.

11/19/2025

Canandaigua- John Marshall Fladd, age 99, passed away on Wednesday, November 12, 2025.

A memorial service for John will be held at a date to be announced in the spring of 2026.

Memorial contributions in John’s name can be made to Happy Tails, Ontario County Humane Society, 2976 County Rd. 48, Canandaigua, NY 14424; or to, Light Hill Hospice House 5160 Parrish St. Ext., Canandaigua, NY 14424.

John was born on July 23, 1926, a son of the late Walter Herman Fladd and Margaret Elizabeth Jackson Fladd. He honorably served his Country during World War II in the U.S. Army. John served in the European Theater with the 89th Infantry Division. He studied art at RIT for 3 years, resulting in a very talented sculptor, artist with a great ability to write poetry. John enjoyed music especially playing the Ukulele. He was a member of the Rushville United Methodist Church, the Gorham Town Council, he was president of the School Board during the merger and a former member of the Rushville Lions Club.

John owned and operated Fladd Signs for 41 years and an Art Gallery from 1962-1982.

John is survived by his children, Donna (Gary) Horvath of South Carolina, Scott (LiHong) Fladd of Geneva, Robert (Elizabeth) Fladd of Canandaigua, and Dewey (Donna) Fladd of North Carolina; 7 grandchildren, Jason (Stefanie) Horvath, Erica (Wilson) Gonzalez, Daniel Fladd, Jenna Fladd, Gabrielle (Sam) Harris, Noah Fladd and Sarah Fladd; 5 great-grandchildren, Charlotte Horvath, Kai and Sunny Love Harris, and Juniper and Penelope Fladd.

John was predeceased by his parents, his loving wife, Marion Louise Gage Fladd and a grandson, Marshall Fladd.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to John’s family.

11/17/2025

Zephyrhills, FL/Rushville- George Nelson Cator, age 85, passed away on November 14, 2025 at Pretty Pond Manor in Zephyrhills.

A celebration of George’s life will be held at a date to be announced in the spring of 2026.

George was born on December 26, 1939, a son of the late Russell and Olive Cator. Over the years George had worked for various companies including Strickland’s in Canandaigua and Finn’s Auto Parts. George was owner operator of his own truck for over 40 years. For a time he ran his own garbage disposal company and served as Highway Superintendent for the Town of Potter. George also volunteered his time as a fire fighter in Crystal Beach.

George and his wife Connie restored many homes during their marriage in the Rushville area. He was currently residing in Zephyrhills, FL where George was known as the “handy man” of Sleepy Hollow Park in his maroon 1951 Ford truck that he restored and drove proudly for almost 40 years. George enjoyed reading John Grisham books. He loved doing odd-jobs and running equipment. George’s real passion was being a truck driver; he covered countless miles from coast to coast and could give you directions from memory.

George will be remembered for his “unfiltered” quips, comments and sense of humor. He had a strong work ethic and was always willing to help others. George always had a hat on his head and chewing on a cigar.

George is survived by his wife Connie Blakesley Cator, whom he married on Oct. 6, 1972, celebrating 53 years of marriage; sons, Allyn Cator, Gregg (Teresa) Cator, Brad (Cindy) Champlin and Brian (Katie) Champlin; brother: Jim (Lucy) Cator; sister: Mary Colf; brothers-in-law: Richard (Connie) Blakesley and Daniel (Marsha) Bardeen; sister-in-law: Nancy Bardeen; 14 grandchildren, 24 great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews & friends.

George was predeceased by his parents; son, Blake Champlin; nephews, Larry “Junior” Colf, and Jim Cator; and a brother-in-law, David Bardeen.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to George’s Family.

11/08/2025

Norma Jane Bergman, age 93, passed away peacefully on November 5, 2025. Born on April 5, 1932, to Anna (Spang) Hadsell and Harry Hadsell, she spent the majority of her life in the Yates County area.

A longtime resident of Middlesex, Norma became an integral part of the growth of the Friendship House, which served community members in need. Her dedication, compassion, and active involvement in supporting others led to her being honored as Middlesex Citizen of the Year in 2009.

Norma is predeceased by her husband, Donald E. Bergman; her sons, Craig and Timothy Bergman; her grandson, Michael Bergman; her great-grandson, Nicholas Parsons; and a daughter-in-law, Donna Bergman.

She is survived by her children: Cindy Colf, Donald C. Bergman, Jr., Deborah (Skip) Brahm, and Ward Bergman; her grandchildren: Craig Miller, Crystal (John) Parsons, Samantha Bergman, Danielle (Mike) Taylor, Todd Miller, Anna (Matt) Yeskey, Janene (Ander) Sweet, and Ryan Bergman; and 13 great-grandchildren.

Norma will be interred at Overackers Cemetery. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date, at the convenience of the family.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Norma’s Family.

10/28/2025

Hopewell/Aloquin- Walter Levertus Brown, known affectionately as Walt to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on October 21, 2025, at the age of 97. A lifelong resident of New York, Walt was born in 1928 in Knapps Creek and spent his working years and retirement in Aloquin. His departure marked the end of a life rich in achievement and service.

A private graveside service will be held at NYS Veterans Cemetery-Sampson, at the convenience of the family.

Walt was a devoted parent, grandparent, uncle, and spouse — a steady and reliable presence in the lives of those he loved. He was preceded in death by his beloved spouse of 62 years, Nancy Brown, who shared his life’s journey and his unwavering commitment to family. He leaves behind a legacy of love and wisdom in his children: Kim Benson and her spouse Joe of Canandaigua, along with their children Jennifer and Sarah; Liz Joseph of Ithaca, and her cherished children Gabrielle and Dante; Walter Brown, Jr., and his spouse Maurien Macorin Brown of Paranavaí, Brazil, and their children Bruno (Sofia, Heitor, Pedro) and Thais (Laura, Helena); Warren Brown and his spouse Rob of Ithaca, along with their child Cedar; and Will Brown, his spouse Janet of Hayward, California, and their children Caleb, Joel, and Abby. He is fondly remembered as Uncle Walt by many nieces and nephews.

As a young man, Walter served in the Army, deployed in Alaska. His service marked a turning point, motivating him to complete his education and earn a professional engineering degree from Tristate (Trine) University, later becoming a licensed engineer in the State of New York. His career was marked by a long tenure with Xerox, where he played an integral role in engineering infrastructure for computer complexes. His analytical mind and thoughtful approach to problem-solving were invaluable assets to the company and his colleagues.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Walt was deeply involved in his community. He served as a board member for the Marcus Whitman School District and Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES. His commitment to education and youth was unwavering and left a lasting impact. Walt was also a faithful member of the Aloquin United Methodist Church, where he contributed quietly but steadfastly to the life of the congregation.

His service extended to numerous organizations, reflecting his diverse interests and dedication to civic engagement. Walt was a proud member of the Gorham Rotary Association, the Geneva VFW Dough Boys, the American Legion, and a participant in the American Chestnut Restoration project. His volunteer spirit shone through his work with Sonnenberg Gardens, the Hopewell Volunteer Fire Department, and the Volunteer Transportation Network, where he provided invaluable assistance to those in need.

Walt’s capable, hands-on nature was evident in everything he did — from his professional projects to his personal hobbies and volunteer work. His analytical mind, intelligence, and resourcefulness defined him and earned the respect and admiration of all who knew him.

As we bid farewell to Walter Levertus Brown, we celebrate a life well-lived — a life of service, intellect, and commitment. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will continue to inspire and guide us. Walt’s life was a testament to the enduring power of dedication, integrity, and quiet service to others.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to Walt’s Family.

10/25/2025

Penn Yan- George H. Newcomb, age 92, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at Soldiers and Sailors Hospital in Penn Yann.

Following George’s wishes, a private celebration of life will be held at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Benton Fire Department, 932 Route 14a, Penn Yan, NY 14527.

George was born in Penn Yan on December 11, 1932, the only child of M. Earl and Ruth (Manning) Newcomb. He started his childhood education in a one room school house and later graduated from the Penn Yan Academy. George worked at one time for the local Marina in town and the Penn Yan Boat Factory. He spent the majority of his life working as a truck driver, both independent and for Penn Yan Express/Consolidated Freight prior to retirement. George was an avid woodworker who enjoyed building various cabinets, furniture and tall clocks. His public service included 15 years as a driver for the Penn Yan Volunteer Ambulance Corps and was a 70-year charter member of the Benton Fire Department.

George is survived by his sons, Randy (Pamela) Newcomb of Penn Yan and Ross (Martha) Newcomb of Penn Yan; five grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

George was predeceased by his parents and his wife Norma Hey Newcomb in May of 2017 after 63 years of marriage.

Please visit www.perkinsamesfuneralhome.com to send a message of condolence to George’s Family.

10/20/2025

Penn Yan/Dundee- Leroy M. Sensenig, age 62 years, 3 months, 1 day, passed away as a result of a biking accident on Sunday, October 20, 2025.

All are welcome to attend calling hours on Thursday, Oct. 23 from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. at the family home, 1972 Welker Rd., Penn Yan, NY 14527. Funeral services will be held on Friday, Oct. 24 at 9:30 a.m. at the Chubb Hollow Old Order Mennonite Church.

Leroy was born on July 18, 1963, a son of the late Ezra Z. and Susanna M. Martin Sensenig. He was a member of the Chubb Hollow Old Order Midwest Conference Mennonite Church. Leroy was the owner and operator of Penn Yan Sewing Machine. He enjoyed riding bikes and was out riding with his grandsons when his call home came.

Leroy is survived by his wife, Lucy G. Sensenig; six daughters, Ella (Andrew) Nolt of Penn Yan, Erma (Nathan) Ringler of Himrod, Ruth (Matthew) Hoover of Penn Yan, Rhoda (Harvey) Hoover of Penn Yan, Rachel (Cleason) Weaver of Stanley and Esther (David) Oberholtzer of Himrod; residing in his home and like a son and daughter, Elsie Weaver and grandson Elmer Nolt; 41 grandchildren; siblings, John (Alta) Sensenig, Lucy (Mervin) Hoover and Martha (late Stanley) Martin.

Leroy was predeceased by his parents, infant son, Leon and stillborn grandson, Caleb.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the Perkins-Ames Funeral Home of Gorham, NY.