Denise Honsberger Graf RIP

Clarence alumna ('72) Denise Honsberger Graf passed away on August 4, 2026. A memory surfaced of celebrating our birthday month with our fathers (who had birthdays a few days apart) at Dog 'N' Suds, back in the day. Of course, I had seen her at the Labor Day Picnic too in later years. She will be missed by many.

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of the thoughtful and loving Denise Graf on August 4, 2026. A longtime resident of Clarence Center, NY, Denise's light shone brightly in the hearts of those who knew her. She was a beautiful person whose love and kindness were as vibrant as her colorful handmade bracelets and scarves, which she delighted in gifting to those around her. 

Denise met her devoted husband, Bob Graf, at Zion Lutheran Church in Clarence Center. Their love story spanned over 45 years, a testament to their shared values and enduring commitment. Alongside Bob, Denise raised their two children, Michael and their late daughter, Amber. 

Denise was a pillar of strength and love, not only for her immediate family but also for her dear sister, Sally Honsberger. She was predeceased by her brother, Robert Honsberger, and sister, Nancy Raynor. Denise was a cherished member of the Clarence community. 

Her love of cooking brought joy to many gatherings, and her dedication was exemplified through her longtime membership at both the Zion Lutheran Church and the Clarence Bowling League "The Skipper". Denise's absence will be deeply felt in these communities. 

Relatives and friends may pay their respects from 4:00 to 8:00 PM on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Ross Funeral Home of Akron, LLC., where a memorial service will be held in honor of Denise's life at 11:00 AM on Saturday, August 15, 2026. In lieu of flowers charitable contributions may be made in Denise's memory to ASPCA. We encourage everyone to leave their fond memories of Denise and upload cherished photos on the memorial page.

Eileen Hoefner Knauth RIP

 Clarence alumna ('72) Eileen Hoefner Knauth passed away on January 20, 2026 after a stay with hospice. Although we did not live that far apart, my last in person memory of her was running into her at a Noco gas station on Main Street in Clarence...funny how some things stick decades later.  

From the obit page:  Beloved wife of the late John Knauth; loving mother of Colleen C. Springer, Rebecca M. (Sean) Sciabarrasi, Kelly C. Knauth Brown and Kathleen E. (Matt) Whittemore; grandmother of 11 grandchildren and 5 great grandchildren.

Her daughter's heartfelt words provide a glimpse: "She was brilliant, quick-witted, and could do anything—fix, create, laugh, love with her whole heart. I’ll forever miss our guitar nights, her fingers finding the melody first, her voice wrapping around mine. I’ll miss her stories that made us cry with laughter, and those deep, late-night talks about life, faith, and everything that mattered. She raised four daughters with fierce, shaping love, teaching us to sing before we could talk, filling our home with music that still lives in me. She worked hard, danced till dawn, and in her sixties, built two huge gardens in scorching heat—hands in the dirt, joy in her soul."

Rest in peace.

Donna Fisher Taglang RIP

Clarence alumna ('72) Donna Fisher Taglang passed away after a short time in hospice on March 7, 2026. May she rest in peace and her family and friends find comfort in their memories.

From the obituary on International Cremation (Florida location): 

"It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for her life that we announce the passing of Donna Lee Taglang, who left this world peacefully on March 7, 2026, at the age of 71. 

Born on July 13, 1954, in Clarence, New York, Donna lived her life filled with warmth, passion and dedication. Donna was a beloved member of both her family and community. 

Her career was marked by her tenure as a dedicated manager at the Sunglass Hut at Countryside Mall, where she retired in 2010, where her commitment and enthusiasm were evident to all who had the privilege of working alongside her. Donna spent 4 years working part-time for “Made in the Shade” at Johns Pass, where she inspired her colleagues with her leadership and grace. Outside of work, Donna had a zest for life and a wide array of interests. She found joy and serenity in creating Diamond Art, and solving crossword puzzles. Donna was an avid reader; she could often be found engrossed in a good book by the beach. 

Donna’s love for the ocean and its inhabitants led her to become an active member of the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. She was proud of her involvements with the Sea Turtle Team, where she contributed to the preservation and care of sea turtles. 

Donna is preceded in death by her father Dayton Fisher, mother Ester Johnson Fisher, brother Dan, and great-niece Cassandra.  

Donna’s legacy continues through the love she shared with her husband of 51 years, Paul Taglang. Her kind spirit and gentle nature will also be fondly remembered by her brothers, Doug and Dean Fisher, and her five nephews: David, Corey, Scott, Jeff, and Peter Fisher, great-nephew Nicko. 

As those who loved Donna gather to commemorate her remarkable life, they find comfort knowing that she touched the lives of so many with her kindness and unwavering spirit. Though her departure leaves a void, her memory shines brightly in the hearts of all who were fortunate enough to know her."

Chuck Pearson RIP

 Clarence alumni ('72) Chuck Pearson passed away December 4, 2024. 

Pearson, Charles F., Sr. "Chuck" Oct. 5, 1954 - Dec. 4, 2024, Age 70 of East Amherst, entered into rest on Wednesday December 4, 2024. He was born in Buffalo, NY on October 5, 1954, the son of late Sidney M. Pearson and Mary Alice (nee Culbertson) Pearson. 

Charles was a Senior Computer Operator and employee of the University at Buffalo for over 30 years. Charles was a past member of the Audubon Men’s Club, Grand Strand Simmons Golf Association of North Myrtle Beach, Monday Goofers of Myrtle Beach and the Founders Group International Golfers in Myrtle beach. 

He is survived by his wife of 40 years Rita M. (nee Lenau) Pearson; devoted father of Melissa (Jason) Minorczyk of East Amherst, NY, Erin (Adrian Nasr) Pearson of Key Largo, FL and Charles Pearson, Jr. of East Amherst, NY; three grandchildren, Madison, Macie and Mallory; two brothers, David (Carol) Pearson of Honeoye Falls, NY and James (Patricia) Pearson of Milan, IL. 

The family was present on Monday from 3-7PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (corner of Hopkins) where prayers and words of remembrance were offered on Tuesday at 10AM. Interment to follow in Greenwood Cemetery, Wilson, NY. In lieu of flowers, donations to FeedMore WNY in Charles’ name will be accepted. Share condolences online at www.AMIGONE.com

Donald Chatwin RIP

 

Clarence alumni ('69) Don Chatwin passed away suddenly August 30, 2024. He was a friend to many.

Chatwin, Donald C. Jr. Aug. 9, 1951 - Aug. 30, 2024 Age 73

Cherished husband of JoAnn (nee Filarecki) Chatwin and the late Donna (nee Pearles) Chatwin; devoted father of Casey (Renata) Filarecki; adored Papa Don of Brett Filarecki. 

Dear brother of Sherry (Myron) Thaden and Douglas (Judy) Chatwin; predeceased by his parents Donald and Arlene Chatwin; caring brother-in-law of Darlene (Jeff) Feinen, Maryann (Norm) Kos, Daniel (Diane) Filarecki, Craig Chaffee, and the late Karen Ann "Harper" Sedgwick; survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and business associates. 

Don was President of the family business, Tri-Metal Industries. He took great pride in knowing the various products they produced helped the quality of many peoples lives. 

The family extends it's deepest gratitude to the Harris Hill Fire Department and staff at Buffalo General Hospital Emergency and MICU Facility. Your compassion and care will never be forgotten. 

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Don's memory to the SPCA Serving Erie County or any volunteer fire department of your choice. 

A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, September 15, 2024 at 1:00 PM at Samuel's Grande Manor, 8750 Main St., Williamsville, NY 14221. Please grab a drink, take a seat, and at 1:30 PM a brief service will be followed by a reception concluding at 4 PM. 

Per Don's wishes, no suits or ties are necessary. 

"There is nothing greater in life than loving another, and being loved in return." 

Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com

Steven Douglas RIP

 Clarence alumni Steven Douglas ('72) passed away January 25, 2024. He hadn't been online for some time due to where he had elected to live. I know he missed his wife a lot...they are together again. 

Of Kenmore, NY, at age 70. Beloved husband of the late Maureen J. (Quinlan) Douglas; loving son of the late James L. and Doris M. (Johnson) Douglas. 

Steven's family wishes to recognize his second family, Keith and Tricia Tramp and their children, Adam, Ashley (God daughter) and Aaron. The Tramps provided friendship, companionship and loving care to Steven throughout his life. 

He is survived by his caring sisters, Holly (David) Bortel and Heather (Barry) Washik and nephews Jared, Tyler and Chase Bortel. 

Steven also leaves behind cherished friends and extended family. No prior visitation. 

A Celebration of Life Gathering will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE

Craig Schreiner RIP

Clarence alumni Craig Schreiner ('73) passed away after a battle with cancer He was preceded in death by his first wife, Clarence alumna Jane Hoppe ('73). From his obituary:

October 28, 1955 – September 12, 2023 Craig A. Schreiner, age 67, of Seattle, passed away on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 surrounded by his family. He died after a two-year battle with cancer in which he showed courage and great fortitude. 

He was preceded in death by his father Charles Schreiner and mother Marguerite Schreiner. He is survived by his wife Janet Rice and two daughters Laura Schreiner and Erika Schreiner. He is also survived by his sister Kim Kuhn, her husband Dave Kuhn, and brother Lee Schreiner and his wife Jane Schreiner. 

Craig was born on October 28, 1955, in Lackawanna, New York and raised in Clarence Center, New York. Craig arrived in Seattle with Jane Hoppe in the early 1980's seeking a place to hike, fish, and enjoy the water and green spaces of Washington. Craig and Jane married and started their family here. Jane died from cancer in 1990. Craig and Janet married in 1993.

Craig earned his architecture degree at the University of Washington, after taking courses at University of Buffalo and Syracuse University. He started his career in project management with the Benaroya Company. He later worked with Wright Runstad and Company and Dingfield and Associates before starting Kirk and Schreiner with Chris Kirk. Eventually, he formed his own business Project Management Inc. He retired in 2018. 

Craig loved retirement as he indulged his love of boating, traveling, sports and music. He and Janet sailed in the Puget Sound during the summer and fall. They spent the three months of winter every year in sunny Florida. He regularly golfed, biked and played tennis. He loved playing the sax and was always willing to perform for family and friends. 

Craig was a bright, charming, and fun person to be around. He was devoted to his family. His cheerful humor, passion for nature, and determination to live life to the fullest will forever be a gift and inspiration to all who knew him. He was well loved by his family and friends and will be sorely missed. 

Special thanks go to Eileen Quiqley of Evergreen Hospice. A celebration of life will be held in October, a time and place yet to be determined. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wheelchairs for Nigeria (wheelchairsfornigeria.org) or Kids Alive (kidsalive.org).