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

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

John Irvine RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) John Irvine passed away on July 19, 2023. May he rest in peace. Comfort sent to his friends and family.

John Ray Irvine, 69, passed away on July 19, 2023. John is predeceased by his parents, Jack and Onalee, and sister-in-law Leslee. He is survived by wife and true love, Rae; son Craig (Jessica) Troskosky; grandchildren Audrey and Chloe; sister Linda (Ross) Holmes; brother Tom (Barb) Irvine; brother-in-law William "Todd" Smeltzer and sister-in-law Jill (Alan Mulberg) Smeltzer; nieces and nephews; and loving family and friends. 

During their 39-year marriage, John and Rae traveled throughout the U.S. and Europe particularly enjoying trips to Cape Cod and Martha's Vineyard. The two shared adventures and loved visiting local restaurants, beaches, and historical sites. 

John retired from Ultralife Corporation and worked many years for Wilson Greatbatch Ltd. He was a devout Christian and a board member of the Edgewood Church. John volunteered for Elderberry Express, giving rides to seniors, and as a youth mentor and tutor with Healthy Harvest Ministries. He was a talented musician, playing banjo and the mandolin in many bands throughout his life. 

John was well-known for his compassion, friendship, and infectious sense of humor. He loved to rile up children, especially his granddaughters, and cared for his loyal "show dog" Brewster and grand dog Penny. John filled every room he entered with warmth, love, and laughter. 

Please send donations to National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) in John's memory. 

John's celebration of life services will be held Saturday, July 29, 2023 at 1 p.m. at Edgewood Church, 111 East Jefferson Road, Pittsford, NY 14534. As a tribute to John, musicians bring your instrument if you'd like to jam during the desserts and coffee following the services. To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

George Atkinson RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) George Atkinson passed away June 22, 2023 while awaiting a liver transplant. While we had our differences politically throughout the years, we still managed to have civil conversations! He will be missed.

George W. Atkinson, Jr. (68) died Thursday, June 22, 2023 at VCU in anticipation of a liver transplant. He was born in Williamsport, PA to Marilyn Mitchell and George W. Atkinson, Sr., who preceded him in death. 

His early years were spent in Atlanta, Georgia and later he graduated from Clarence HS, near Buffalo, NY. He entered the Army in 1972 and served in the 214th Army Band, (FORSCOM'S Own) as a French horn instrumentalist until 1979. He then attended Georgia State University and ROTC (receiving the George C. Marshall award and winner of the military saber), then received a Regular Army commission as a second lieutenant in the Transportation Corps. 

His military assignments included platoon leader in the 503rd Truck Company, Heidelberg Germany; Asst. S2/3 officer in the 28th Transportation Co, Mannheim, Germany; Cdr. 97th Transportation Co, Heavy Boat, Fort Eustis, VA; Cdr. 710th Transportation Provisional Boat Co, Mogadishu; Division Transportation officer for the 1st Infantry Division, Wurzburg, Germany; V Corps Transportation Officer, Heidelberg, Germany; and his final assignment as the Executive officer for two Deputy Commanders of HQ, TRADOC, Fort Monroe, VA. 

His active service was performed during war and peace with two tours in Germany, three tours in Virginia, two deployments to Saudi Arabia, a deployment to Somalia and two rotations to Kosovo in the Balkans. In l996/97 he authored FM 55-80, the Army Container Operations manual. 

In 2004, George retired from active duty as a lieutenant colonel and served as a Department of the Army civilian first as a Doctrine Writer in the Deployment Process Modernization Office, Fort Eustis, VA, then as Deputy Assistant Commandant, Director of Instruction for the US Army Transportation School. He retired as Supervisor Training Specialist at Fort Lee, VA in 2013. His military awards include Legion of Merit, Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal, (3rd award). 

Upon retirement he enjoyed gardening, traveling, caring for dogs, and Hawaiian shirts. George met his wife, Mary Framstad, in 1974 when she was reassigned from the 14th Army Band (WAC) to the 214th Army Band (FORSCOM'S Own). After a brief courtship they were married in 1975. 

George is survived by his wife of 48 years, Mary; sisters, Pamela Irons (Frank), Paula Dotson (Zechariah), and Patricia McLean (Bill); and several nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life service for George was held at the Williamsburg Mennonite Church, 7800 Croaker Road, Williamsburg, VA 23188, on Friday, July 21, 2023 at 3:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations be made in George's name to www.K9sforwarriors.org. 

Internment at Arlington will occur at a future date. Online condolences may be shared at www.NelsenWilliamsburg.com.

Glenn Hall RIP

 Clarence alumnus Glenn Hall ('72) passed away last month. May he rest in peace.

Glenn Hall, passed away unexpectedly on April 16, 2023. He was born in Buffalo, NY on February 16,1951 to the late George and Doris (Clark) Hall. 

He was a Class of 1972 graduate of Clarence High School and worked most of his life in the family construction business. He loved to fish and go metal detecting. He loved collecting baseball cards, but his biggest passion was his coin collection. 

Glenn is survived by his loving children, Jacob, Mitchell, "TJ" Timothy (Angela), Matthew (Natalie) Hall and four grandchildren, Cristine and two grandchildren, Donalynn (Travis) Richardson and three grandchildren; Ex-wife Sharon Hall and longtime girlfriend Lori Stempkowski. Beloved brother of Darlene (Ronald) Schultz and David (Nancy) Hall. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He is predeceased by his brothers, George Jr., Gregory, Geoffrey, Gordon, Gary, Gene, Gerald; and a sister Deanna. 

Services were held on Wednesday, April 26, at 3:00 PM at Cherry Creek Central Cemetery, 683 County Touring, County Rd 62, Cherry Creek, NY 14723.

David Crawshaw RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) David Crawshaw passed away December 21, 2022 after health issues took a sudden turn for the worse. 

I have been friends with Dave since back there in elementary school. Many memories, but to share would start making this about me, and not him, and that's not the purpose here. We somewhat kept in contact, especially in later years through Facebook. Some arguments, yes, but always picked right up as though words had not been exchanged. He will be missed.

I only have memories of those days in Clarence Center to piece together his family. I'm not clear on kids and so forth, so I'll skip that. I know I could ask, but that's too easy!

Dave was the son of the late Rawson and Jennie Crawshaw, brother of Rawson, Carol, and the late Alice. More from Amigone:

CRAWSHAW - David J. December 21, 2022, age 68; father of Kyle (Sandy) Crawshaw, Karin (Damien) Davenport, Keith (Keyana) Crawshaw, and Jessica (Lonnie Blank) Washenko; grandfather of Vance, Kenzie, Aiden, Evelyn, Lucy, Lola, Ruby, and Scarlett; brother of Rawson (Jim Westfield) Crawshaw, Carol Stradley, and Alice Booth; uncle of Nicholas Stradley, Heather Booth, Valerie Booth and many great nieces and nephews. The family will be present Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 2-3 PM at the (Harris Hill Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8440 Main St. (near Harris Hill Rd.), where a Funeral Service will follow at 3 PM. Friends invited. Share condolences on David's Tribute Page at www.AMIGONE.com 

 Further info to follow for food, drinks, and socializing after.

Mike McNally RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) Wayne Michael "Mike" McNally passed away May 25, 2022 after a long illness. Mike was present at our first meeting of the 50th reunion committee.

McNALLY - Wayne Michael May 25, 2022. Beloved husband of Cynthia Heath McNally; loving father of Meghan (Robert Jr.) Badding, Kaitlyn (Bryan) McArthur and Shannon McNally; loving Papa of Robert "Trip" Badding III and Finnegan Michael Badding; loving son of Wayne (long time companion, Virginia Sullivan) McNally and the late Jessie Sinnott McNally; brother of Timothy McNally and Maureen (Kevin) Aderman; also survived by many nieces and nephews. 

Friends may call Friday, June 10, 2022 at 4-9pm at THE DIETRICH FUNERAL HOME, 2480 Kensington. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at St. Mary Church, 6919 Transit Rd., Swormville, NY 14051, on Saturday, June 11, 2022 at 10:30am. Please assemble at church. Flowers gratefully declined. 

Memorials may be made to Roswell Park. Arrangements by the THE DIETRICH FUNERAL HOME, INC. Please share condolences online at www.TheDietrichFuneralHome.com

Steve Wolf, RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) passed away March 4, 2022 after a long illness. He was always there for friends and family, and spent much of his time helping them, all of whom mourn his absence and friendship.

Services were private.

(photo borrowed from family/fb)

Brian H Brady RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) Brian Brady passed away of natural causes back in 2005, but I felt it was important to remember him here. Sometimes when you're looking for contact information for a missing classmate, you find sad news instead.

Brian H. Brady (10/26/54-7/19/2005) of Buffalo died July 19 at home of natural causes. He was 50. 

A city native, he graduated from Clarence Senior High School and attended Manatee Junior College in Florida and the University of Florida at Gainesville and Jacksonville. Mr. Brady enjoyed gardening, helping neighbors, and spoiling his nieces and nephews. 

His love of travel led him to live throughout the United States, including in Florida, New Mexico, Texas, Hawaii and Colorado. He camped for more than a year on a mountain in Colorado. He had lived in Buffalo for the past eight years. 

Survivors include his mother and stepfather, Eva Mae and Thomas Harris of Palm Harbor, Fla.; two brothers, Bernard Brady of Buffalo and Andrew Harris of Clarence Center; and two sisters, Lisa VanHoff of Orchard Park and Mary Rokhvadze of Oneonta. A memorial service will be held at a later date. Burial will be in Forest Lawn.

Alan Cole RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) Alan Cole has passed away. May the memories of his family be a comfort to them.

January 3, 2022, age 68, beloved father of Erin (Jason) Voss, Ryan (Lynne) Cole, Meghan (Christopher) Hyde; loving grandfather of River, Andrew, Dominic, Ethan, Owen, Addison, and Jacob; dearest brother of Sharon (Mark) Gordon and Timothy (Susan) Cole; also survived by nieces and nephews. 

The family will receive friends on Friday from 10am-11am at the (Harris Hill Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 8440 Main St. (near Harris Hill Rd.), where services will follow at 11:00am. Interment to be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in his memory to American Stroke Association, Vascular Dementia, 7272 Greenville Ave., Dallas, TX 75231. 

Share memories and condolences on Alan's Tribute Page at www.AMIGONE.com

Michael Stafford RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) Michael Stafford passed away on December 13, 2021. He was a devoted member of his volunteer firefighting community.

 

December 13, 2021, age 68, beloved husband of Jean (nee Leising) Stafford; dear brother of David Stafford, Jeffrey (Stacey) Stafford, Suzanne (Richard) Evans and the late Jason and Jacob Stafford; brother in law of Cletus (Paula) Leising, Eileen (David) Leeds, Bernice (Wayne) Clough and Peter (Marianne) Leising; also survived by many nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews. 

Michael was a 40 year member of Swormville Fire Co. and past member of Harris Hill Fire Co. Services will be held at a later date. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com 

 And from his fire company: 

It is with great sorrow that the Swormville Fire Company reports the passing of firefighter badge number 017, Michael Stafford, on December 13th, 2021 . Michael has served the Swormville Fire Company for 42 years, joining the company on February 4th 1980. 

Prior to joining Swormville, Michael was an active member for 9 years with the Harris Hill Volunteer Fire Company. Michael was a very active member of the Swormville Fire Company. 

He was known throughout the towns for his love and devotion to the bowling team and to the fire police. Michael was dedicated to serving the community and he will be missed. The Swormville Fire Company is mourning this loss.

Bill Lutz RIP

 Clarence alumnus ('72) Bill Lutz passed away on July 29, 2021. While I'm copying the words, if you go to the link provided there is a really nice video of his life. Rest in Peace.

https://www.rossakron.com/obituary/WilliamBill-Lutz

William J. Lutz “Bill” surrounded by family on July 29, 2021. He was born in Buffalo, New York on November 5, 1954 to the late William and Anne (Roberts) Lutz. Bill was a 1972 graduate of Clarence High School. He enjoyed, hunting, fishing, and trapping in his spare time. Bill especially loved horses and was kind of a cowboy at heart. He made his living as a carpenter, and was very good working with his hands. 

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Pauline (Cummings) Lutz; beloved father of Tammy (late Arron) Colletti, William Lutz, Brandy (Chris) Lutz, James Schoenwetter, Jeffery (Kelley) Schoenwetter and Mary (Brian) Hamm; cherished brother of Becky (Paul) Leahey, Linda (Lutz) Petroci and Ann (Andy) Black; foster brother of Mike Smith; grandfather of thirteen. Bill is predeceased by a grandchild, Jacob Colletti.

Thomas Hoehman RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) Tom Hoehman has passed away. He lived a few blocks away from me in Clarence Center growing up, was a regular at the Labor Day Fair for years, and was in contact through Facebook with myself and others more recently. Peace and comfort to his friends and family.

Thomas Howard Hoehman of Homosassa, FL passed away at Citrus Memorial Hospital on May 29, 2021 at the age of 66. 

He worked as a truck driver throughout his life and enjoyed riding motorcycles in his spare time. Thomas also enjoyed traveling, fishing and camping. He was a big fan of racing and had been a stock car racer for a time. He made Citrus County his home in 2008. He was a Christian by faith and attended worship services at Sun Coast Baptist Church in Homosassa. 

Those left to mourn Thomas’ passing include his partner of 5 years, Catherine (Segura); his daughter, Kristen Hohensee and her husband Dennis; son, Thomas Hoehman; stepchildren: Jessica May Gawrich and Amy Lynn Smith; brother, Joseph Hoehman; and 2 grandchildren. Cremation care by the Chas E. Davis Funeral Home with Crematory, Inverness, FL.

Don Maurer RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) Don Maurer has passed away. He was a large part in the lives of many, and also active with previous reunions. Condolences to all.

MAURER - Donald F. February 6, 2020, age 65; beloved husband of Susan M. (nee Tillman) Maurer; devoted father of Ryan (Ashley Cieslewicz) Maurer and Sarah (Andrew) Wojcik; loving grandfather of Averie, Sean, Jenna, and Ryley; dear brother of Bruce (Rita), Robert (Cathy), Stanley, and Allen (Beverly); also survived by many nieces and nephews. A Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME, INC. Share condolences at www.AMIGONE.com.


(photo borrowed from facebook)

The Hogans RIP

Most of us who were around in the 70's remember when Ross Hogan ('72) left us. It was jarring, to say the least.

Then, in 2009 older sister Kathleen ('70) passed on. Even though I didn't know her, I know she was friends with many. Her wonderfully written obituary is here. A short quote from it:

"Kathleen passed away on Friday, January 23, 2009 after spending 7 years upending medical knowledge as we know it. Her fierce determination to live and her resilience in her illness gave those who knew her many more years to love her than we should have been allowed."

This all came up because someone on social media was looking for Jim Hogan ('74).  He was found, via a beautiful heartfelt obituary written by his daughter, posted here. A bit from it:

"There’s no way to even begin to encompass everything that my dad was, the good and the bad, in this brief space. But they say life is fragile. And as my dad aged, he could be fragile too. But I think they’re wrong about life. Life is not fragile, but fierce. But life is fleeting. And I, my sisters, my sons, and especially my mother, are so grateful for the time we were lucky to share with Jim Hogan."

And then...with too much time on my hands and google, I looked for Patty ('72), Ross's twin sister, only to find that she passed away in July. Her obituary is here. And then a few months later the father passed away.

It's almost like a book closed, but not really. The next generation is already making their mark in this world, blessed to be a part of the Hogan family.

Now, I don't have a photo of Ross, just some really blurry group photos in a yearbook, so I'm not including any of the rest of the family...they can be found if you click on the links above. However, I did decide to include one of all of the Hogans that I borrowed from one of the links...simpler times. May they all rest in peace.

Robert Harper RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) Robert Harper passed away February 14, 2019.

Houston - Robert Porter Harper III died Thursday, February 14, 2019 at Methodist Hospital in Houston, TX. He fought many health battles including a heart transplant and neurosurgery.

 He is survived by his beloved wife Jovie (Ivy) Harper, their two children Jay Christopher and Hannah May, his mother Dorothy Harper, his three adult children Corinne Spellane, Daubney Boland, and Leslie Konesheck, his sister Deborah Hoffmann and Rebecca Vickers, his eight grandchildren and many close friends.

 Born and raised in Buffalo, NY, Bob was full of adventure. He received his pilot's certificate at age 16, before he even learned to drive a car. He traveled the world and loved to fly. He lived with his family in Bayview, TX. Bob assisted in the management of the Port Isabel - Cameron County Airport and Hunt Pan Aviation Brownsville, TX. In the past he managed a flight school and cargo business with connections throughout the world. Bob Harper had a creative mind and an eye for business. He will be greatly missed.

 A memorial service will be held on March 2, 2019 at 11:00 am at the Chapel by the Sea, South Padre Island, TX. Published in Valley Morning Star on Feb. 27, 2019

(photos borrowed from his facebook page)

Jan Leslie Meese RIP

Clarence alumna ('72) Jan Leslie Meese passed away November 2, 2018 after a long illness. The following was published in her local newspaper:

Jan Leslie Meese was born May 8, 1955 to Harold and Nadine Meese near Buffalo, NY and raised in Williamsville and Clarence, NY.  Jan Leslie, or JL as she was known, passed away peacefully at age 63 on November 2, 2018 surrounded by her family and friends, thus concluding her fascinating journey on this mysterious plane of existence. 

JL was a 1972 graduate of Clarence High School, and attended the State University of NY in Albany after which she worked with the Girl Scouts of America in regional management.  Her work led her to the Midwest where she first worked in St. Cloud, MN and then Davenport, IA.  While attending the Unitarian Fellowship she met her future husband, Charles, and the two were married February 16, 1991 at Mayowood in Rochester, MN. They had two children, Caryn Nadine Mayo (24)and Charles Horace Mayo III (Chaz), 22. 

JL had a keen mind and astonished her teachers by learning to read without instruction in preschool.  In adulthood, her husband encouraged her to pursue her lifelong dream to study law. After studying for the LSAT entrance exam and obtaining a perfect score, she was awarded a full scholarship to Washburn University School of Law and attained her degree in 1995.  When her husband's medical career led the family to Rice Lake, WI in 1996, JL then joined the law firm, Friess and Koehler and later became partner in the firm, Koehler and Meese practicing family and general law and functioning as City Attorney for Rice Lake with her law partner.

JL was a woman of considerable talent and generosity, and was also noted for a very dry sense of humor, and clever, even acerbic wit, often catching others off-guard and keeping them on their toes.  In addition to legal practice, she endeavored to strengthen local and international relations through involvement with the Rice Lake International Friendship Association and Sister Cities affiliations with Miharu, Japan and Zamberk, Czech, serving a term as that organization's president and traveling to Japan. She and her family hosted many exchange students and international visitors from Japan and Czech throughout the years. JL supported the arts and was an active supporter of the local Northern Star Theater Company in Rice Lake where both her children participated instilling in them a love for the arts.  

Unfortunately, in mid-adulthood JL’s health became increasingly impeded by brittle diabetes and complications.  This necessitated eventual early retirement and a subsequent move to Woodstone Senior Living Center in Rice Lake for daily assistance. She benefitted from the kind and caring attention given by the staff there in her final 2 years.

Jan Leslie is survived by her husband of 27 years, Charles W. Mayo II, her daughter Caryn, in Washington, D.C. and her son Charles (Chaz), studying in London, England. She also leaves her sister, Jody Meese and her family of San Rafael, CA. She is predeceased by her parents and brother Van. She will be missed by her honorary family, Gert (Don) Patterson and her family including Roger (Kathleen), Ruth (Jerry), and Ronnie (Sally) and godson, Greg Wilson as well as Czech "son" Zbynek Kralik of Prague, Czech.  Many more family, friends and acquaintances, especially Ana Traicoff-Strattioti, Patricia Barry, and Gabriel Traicoff, will miss her presence.

A memorial celebration for the life of Jan Leslie Meese is planned for April 13, 2019. She will be greatly missed by many. 

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