Obituaries | The Batavian (2024)

Albert G. Platten of Corfu went to be with the Lord on June 18, 2024 at the age of 78. He was born at St. Jerome's Hospital in Batavia on December 5, 1945 to the late Thomas K. and Alberta (nee Stringham) Platten, Sr. He is preceded in death by Noreen L. "Renee" Platten (nee Dusel).

He was a devoted father to Amy Lou Platten, Pamela Jo Loverdi, and Jill Marie (Corey) Duzen; grandfather to Breanne, Sean, Amber and Paul; great-grandfather to William and Raelynn; sibling to the late Thomas K. (Joann, Jean, and Mickey) Platten, Jr., the late Robert R. (Anne) Platten, Sr., and Calvin J. (Ruth) Platten of Batavia; brother-in-law to Elaine (Thomas) Franco of Batavia, Alan (Brenda) Dusel of Williamsville, and the late Janice (David) Miller. He is also survived many nieces, nephews and cousins.

Albert graduated Batavia High School in 1963 and shortly afterwards joined the Marine Corps. He worked for the New York State Department of Transportation for years while starting his part-time painting and window cleaning business; which became full-time and served Batavia and the surrounding areas for many years. Albert was an avid Atlanta Braves fan, enjoyed spending time in nature and camping, and traveling with Renee in their motorhome. He was an active member with the Boy Scouts of America Troop 67.

Family and friends are invited to call on Wednesday June 26^th from 5:00-7:00pm at Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020. A 10:00AM Military Service will be held on Thursday June 27^th at the Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu where he will be laid to rest.

In lieu of flowers, the family generously asks that donations be made to the Boy Scouts of America on Lewiston Road Batavia or the Marine Corps League Foundation www.mclfoundation.org. To leave a message of condolence please visit www.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home 329-333 West Main Street Batavia, New York 14020.

Newark/Bath - James C. Corbett, 78 of Newark, formerly of Bath, passed away on Wednesday, (June 19, 2024) at Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester.

Mr. Corbett was born May 8, 1946 in Syracuse, a son of the late Theodore Corbett, Sr. and Marion (late Robert) Meyer Corbett Dome.

Jim was a kind hearted, giving man who loved history and his family - including the 4-legged ones.

He is the husband of the late Carolyn (Kerns) Corbett who passed away in 2017.

Surviving are his daughters, Jessica (Mitch) Boise Lee of Williamson and Mary Kate Corbett of Newark; grandchildren, Sloan and Jaxon Boise; siblings, Theodore (Christine Brooks) Corbett, Jr. of Virginia, Richard (Linda) Corbett of Canandaigua, Christopher (Debra) Corbett of New Jersey, and Katherine Creveling of Fairport. Several nieces and nephews also survive.

Along with his parents and wife, Jim is preceded in death by a brother, David Corbett.

Family and friends are invited to call on Thursday, (June 27, 2024) from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm at Young Funeral Home, 4025 Main Street in Williamson; where Jim's funeral service will immediately follow at 1:00 pm. Burial will be in Newark Cemetery in Newark. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to American Battlefield Trust or Operation Freedom Ride Dog Rescue.

Arrangements were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home in Batavia. Please leave a condolence, share a story, or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Leslie H. Mengs, 91 of Elba, passed away peacefully Monday, June 17, 2024 after a brief illness to be with his loving wife, Rita.

He was born July 27, 1932 to the late Harold and Viola Mengs.

He was predeceased by his wife, Rita Sheffer Mengs of 69 years, siblings, Doris Merrill, Gordon Mengs, Gerald Mengs, Howard Mengs, and Dorothy Mengs.

Les graduated from Batavia High School and Metal Trades Vocational School. He worked for a brief time for his father-in-law at Sheffer Well Drilling. He served his country as a medic in the Korean War in the 7th Infantry. Les retired from the Local 280 Carpenter’s Union in 1994.

After retirement he enjoyed traveling with his wife, visiting family and watching the NY Giants and NY Yankees games with his son, Jeff. Most of his time was spent caring for his yard and the home he built in 1957. He always claimed to be a farmer at heart due to being raised on a farm and referred to his home as the homestead.

He has enjoyed spending winters in North Carolina visiting his family and great-grandchildren. Most recently, he traveled to Florida, which brought many laughs and memories including attending a Yankees game with his nephew and niece, a beach trip with friends and even riding a four-wheeler through the swamp.

Les is remembered by his daughter, Julie (Keith) Richenberg of North Carolina, son, Jeffrey Mengs of Batavia, grandchildren, Bradley (Lena) Richenberg of Virginia, Kaitlin (Zachary) Spencer of North Carolina, Matthew Richenberg of Hawaii, and beloved great-grandsons, Harrison and Davis Spencer.

As per his request, there will be no calling hours or memorial service. Burial will be at the convenience of the family at Maple Lawn Cemetery. If you would like to, please donate to Volunteers For Animals, P. O. Box 1621, Batavia, NY 14020 in Les’s name.

Arrangements are entrusted to H. E. Turner & Co., Inc. Funeral Home, Batavia, NY. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Irvin M. Bartz “Poppy”, 84 of Batavia, passed away peacefully on Monday (June 17, 2024) to be with his Master and to regain the companionship of his lifetime partner, Diane.

He was born April 24, 1940 in Batavia, NY, to the late Albert J. Bartz Sr. and Ruth V. (Noel) Dutton.

He was predeceased by his loving wife Diane “Dee Dee” Tomaselli Bartz; Son, Kelly Bartz; Daughter, Risa Helene Bartz and sister Carol Irrera.

He served his country with the U.S. Marines Corps for four years and was a member of the American Legion Post 332 since 2000.

Irv retired from Eastman Kodak after 32 years, where he primarily worked in the water treatment and environmental services field. Irv was a member of Ascension Parish and was an officer of the Holy Name Society since 1967, a member of the St. Vincent DePaul Society, the choir, a lector and one of the first eucharistic ministers at the former church.

After retirement Irv volunteered at the VA Medical Center and was a representative of the Arch-Diocese for the Military to the VA Voluntary Service Committee. He also volunteered at Robert Morris, Jackson and John Kennedy Schools in Batavia where he enjoyed being with young children, helping them to read or whatever the assignment of the day was. He was also a coach for Youth Minor League Baseball for 5 years. The desire to be with the youth stemmed from his numerous activities with his sons at home and in school.

Survivors include his sons, Michael (John Couri) of Batavia, Eric (Sherrilyn) of Batavia and Christian (Celina) Bartz of Batavia. Grandchildren Taylor, Madeleine, Noelle, Leda, Nina and Risa. Great-grandchildren, Maple and Walden. Also survived by his siblings, Albert (Gerri) Bartz, Ronald (Sandy) Bartz and Rosemary (late Bob) Graff. In-laws, George Tomaselli, Jim (Connie Chatley) Tomaselli and Georginne Tomaselli and Nancy Tomaselli. Also survived by several godchildren as well as several nieces, nephews, cousins and their families.

Friends may call on Friday (June 21st) from 3-7pm at the J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 Bogue Ave., Batavia, NY. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Saturday, 11:30am at Ascension Parish (South Swan St.) in Batavia. Interment with military honors will follow in Grandview Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Ascension Parish or St. Vincent DePaul Society. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family at www.mcandrewfuneralhomes.net.

ARRANGEMENTS WERE ENTRUSTED TO THE J. LEONARD McANDREW FUNERAL HOME, LLC, 2 BOGUE AVE., BATAVIA, NY 14020. RONALD KONIECZNY II, DIRECTOR.

Attica - Robert L. Frost, 93 of Tonawanda, formerly of Attica, passed away on Thursday (June 13, 2024) at his home under the care of Hospice Buffalo and his family.

Mr. Frost was born February 12, 1931 in Buffalo, a son of the late Jack and Olive (Woods) Frost.

Bob was a former member of Trinity United Methodist Church in Attica and was most recently supporting St. John's United Church of Christ in Buffalo, although he was unable to physically attend. He enjoyed poetry, reading, history, and especially learning everything he could about President Lincoln.

Mr. Frost served his country honorably with the United States Air Force and was a New York State Trooper.

Robert is the husband of the late Veronica (Schum) Frost who passed away in 2022 and whom he missed very much.

Surviving are his nieces and nephews, Katrina (Christian Carydis) Uhly, Laura (John Swinton) Uhly, Diana (Brett) Shirley, William (Ann) Schonerock, Sharon (Jay) Anderson, Elisa Frost, Geoffrey Frost, Loni (Will) Orlet, Patty (Gene) Naujock, and Ernest Nelson; sister-in law, Catherine T.(George) Uhly; and brother-in-law, Thomas R. Schum. Several great-nieces and great-nephews also survive.

He is preceded in death by his siblings, Franklin Frost, Ernest Nelson, and Pauline Hill; nephew, John Nelson.

There will be no visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend Bob's graveside service in St. Vincent's Cemetery, Exchange Street in Attica, on July 17, 2024 at 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or St. John's United Church of Christ.

Arrangements were entrusted to the care of Marley Funeral Home, 135 Main Street in Attica. Please share a message of condolence with the family at www.marleyfuneralhome.com.

Donald R. Read Jr., 52, of Byron, passed away on Sunday, June 16th, 2024 at Strong Memorial Hospital following a brief illness.

He was born in Brockport, New York on July 26th, 1971 a son of the late Donald R. Read, Sr. and Sharon Passarell Cooper.

Donny was a dedicated mason by trade, working for BAC Local 3 in Rochester. He took great pride in his work and was known for his craftsmanship. In his free time, he loved motorcycle riding and spending time with his beloved dogs, who brought him great comfort. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his loving wife, Molly A. Read, his children, Coty Read and Jenna (Christopher Merica, Sr.) Read, step-children Todne (Robert) Csapo and Sean Crowe, grandchildren, Addie Read, Maci Stone, Liliana Merica, Delilah Merica, Christopher Merica, Jr., and step-grandson, Rhett Csapo. He is also survived by his brother, Brian (Michelle) Read, sister, Kim (Bryan) Flaherty, step-brother, Samuel (Tracy) Cooper, Jr., step-sister, Kimberly Truax, step-father Samuel Cooper, Sr., and many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Celebration of Life will be held at the Byron Fire Hall in Byron, New York on Sunday, June 23rd, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Please consider memorials in his name to the Byron Fire Department, P.O. Box 210, Byron, New York 14422. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in his memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Donny are under the care and direction of the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home of Bergen.

LeRoy ~ Surrounded by her adoring family, our precious mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, Aunt, Second Mom to many and friend, Janice Furr, passed away on June 16, 2024.

She was born January 28, 1937 in Batavia, a daughter of the late Mitchell and Eunice Little Swede.

Janice was her family’s North Star. Selfless and sincere, she was always the first to offer to help – whether a ride to work, a place to stay, or a shoulder to lean on. Her home was always a place of warmth and comfort. And absolutelynothingbrought her more joy throughout the years than seeing her family all together enjoying each other.

A devout believer in God, Janice always emphasized the importance of tolerance, kindness and sacrifice. Though make no mistake, she was not shy to share her point of view if she felt that was needed. Her manner of voicing opinions is legendary and will live on for generations.

She is survived by her children, Danny Miller, Mike (Deanna) Miller, Dennis Miller, Vicky (Mark) Iafrati, Brenda Caccamise (Jim D’Angelo), Debbie Bridgeman and Julie (Rick) Laurie; step-children, Don (Suzy) Furr, Pamela Furr, Chris (Bob) Caracci and Cindy Furr, along with many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and dear friends.

In addition to her parents, Mitchell and Eunice, she was predeceased by her husband, Robert Furr; sister, Betty (Robert) Pursel; sons-in-law, Philip Caccamise and Everette Bridgeman and the father of her children, Daniel T. Miller.

Family and friends may call on Thursday, June 20 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy. Her Rite of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, June 21 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, 44 Lake St., LeRoy. Interment in St. Francis Cemetery will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to Volunteers for Animals, P.O. Box 1621, Batavia, N.Y. 14021

Your memories and condolences may be shared with Janice’s family atwww.falconefuneralhome.com

Leonard B. (Brian) Clark, 78, of Batavia, passed away on June 14, 2024, at Crossroads House in Batavia, NY.

He was born in Batavia on June 13, 1946, the son of the late William R. and Delores I. (Pixley) Clark.

Brian graduated from Batavia High School in 1964. He was an Army veteran drafted during the Vietnam War era (1966). Brian was assigned to Fort Dix, New Jersey, for basic training before attending Ben Harrison Army Finance/Stenography School. Then, he was deployed to the Bavarian Region of Germany with the third infantry division/personnel actions branch. He rose to SP/5 status in 13 months, which was unprecedented.

Brian worked for over 35 years at the Batavia Daily News as a printer, foreman of the composing department, and the first system manager. He studied printing at the Rochester Institute of Technology and was a member of the International Typographical Union/Communication Workers of America. After retirement, he worked another six years as a commercial painter for Chmielowiec Painting, Inc.

Brian had a passion for news and read several newspapers. In his retirement, he was known to watch multiple news channels on a loop throughout the day! He enjoyed music-especially Elvis Presley and Motown acts, dancing, hunting, bowling, playing cards or games, camping, and working outside in his yard. He was an avid Buffalo Bills fan and loved to watch golf!

Brian put his family first. Spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren always makes him smile! He was known to recount stories growing up surrounded by numerous cousins in the Pixley family. In later years, he could often be found sitting on his porch talking to his many neighbors, young or old.

He is preceded in death by two brothers, Richard C. Clark and Robert W. Clark, and his brother and sister-in-law, John and Diane Bostwick.

Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Sandra J. (Bostwick) Clark; children Stacey L.C. Aliasso (Thomas) Rowcliffe and Jarrod B. (Jessica Zaremski) Clark of Batavia; sister-in-law Deborah K. (Bostwick) Davis of Tennessee; grandchildren Tilar B. (Sara Conrad) Clark of Buffalo, Anneliese R. (Michael Fabiano) Aliasso of Batavia, Ariana M. (Austen) Bertrand of North Carolina, Guinnevere J. Clark of Batavia; great grandson’s Tilar Jon Michael Clark of North Carolina and Clark Joseph Fabiano of Batavia; former son in law Joseph M. Aliasso of Buffalo and an abundance of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Brian’s family would like to acknowledge the exceptional care Dr. Jones, Dawn, Jason, Nicole, Kathy, Julie, and the many staff members and volunteers at Crossroads House provided.

There are no prior calling hours. Interment will be private at Western New York National Cemetery in Corfu, NY. In celebration of Brian’s life, he asks you to plant a tree in your community.

Memorials may be made to Crossroads House, P.O. Box 403, Batavia, NY 14021, Genesee Cancer Assistance, Inc., 127 North Street, Batavia, NY 14020, The Michael Napoleone Memorial Foundation, Inc., P.O. Box 267, Batavia, NY 14021-0267, Genesee County Hospice, 29 Liberty Street, Suite #6, Batavia NY 14020 or the Notre Dame Girls Soccer Program, Notre Dame High School, 73 Union Street, Batavia, NY 14020. To leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle in Brian's memory, please visit www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Bohm-Calarco-Smith Funeral Home, 308 East Main Street, Batavia.

LeRoy ~ Mary Ann (Hewitt) Dillon passed away on June 12, 2024 at LeRoy Village Green, where she resided since August of last year.

Marian (as she was known to her family) was born November 22, 1934 in Syracuse, NY. She was the only child of Thomas and Josephine (Bradshaw) Hewitt. She grew up in the Tipperary Hill neighborhood of the city surrounded by her large extended Irish family.

Marian was a 1952 graduate of St. Patrick’s School, where she was a cheerleader and a member of Charity Guild Sorority. She graduated from Central City Business Institute in 1953.

Mary was the widow of Joseph P. Dillon. They were married for 57 years before his passing in 2013.

A resident of LeRoy since 1966, Mary worked for St. Peter’s parish office and later for the Fathers of Our Lady of Mercy for many years.

Mary was a cook, baker and doll maker. There are many recipients of her delicious baked goods, doll clothes, football pillows, bow ties and fleece blankets.

Mary is survived by her children, Thomas (TJ), Mary Ellen (Kevin) Hausman, Paul (Julie), Peter (Susan), Siobhan (Todd) Salzman, as well as her grandchildren, Meghan and Brenna Dillon; Emily Hausman and her husband, Rabbi Joseph Robinson, Kathleen Hausman, Max Hausman and his wife, Robyn; Sean, Enya and Quinten Dillon; Claire and Grace Dillon; Jacob (Jack) Salzman; great-grandchildren, Ruth, Liam, Ben-Ami and Shalom Robinson. One surviving cousin Ann (Hewitt) Keegan, along with many nieces, nephews and her cousins’ children. Mary is also survived by her dear friends, Maria and Jose Chavez and their children, Jay, Armando (Angela) and Emily, plus her Bradshaw cousins in Ireland and St. Louis.

She was predeceased by one granddaughter, Jena Dillon of Colorado.

Family and friends may call on Friday, August 9 from 4 ~ 7 PM at the Falcone Family Funeral & Cremation Service Inc., 8700 Lake St. Rd., LeRoy. Her Rite of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Saturday, August 10 at 11:00 AM at Our Lady of Mercy Parish, St. Peter’s Church, 44 Lake St., LeRoy.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to either The Hunger Project C/O Vince Christian, 318 Westminster Road, DeWitt, NY 13214 or LeRoy Pantry and Help Fund, 48 Main Street, LeRoy, NY 14482

Your memories and condolences may be shared with Mary’s family atwww.falconefuneralhome.com

Georgianna P. (Prior) Bifarella, 97, formerly of Attica and recently of Batavia, peacefully entered eternal rest on June 14, 2024 at the New York State Veterans home, Batavia.

Born on February 22, 1927 in Buffalo, she was the daughter of Thomas Prior and Louise Frank. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Leonard J. Bifarella, who passed away in September 2006; and her siblings, Mary Louise Reed, Carol Booty, Thomas Prior and John Prior.

Her family moved to Springville, where she met and later married Len on April 17, 1948. They moved to Attica in 1961. Georgie worked for and retired from the Wyoming County Community Hospital, where she worked as a social worker in the skilled nursing facility. She and Len were members of the Stafford Country Club for over 40 years. Georgie moved to Batavia in 2010.

Georgie is survived by her daughter, Cynthia (Stephen) Ferrando; her son, Peter (Loretta) Bifarella; four grandchildren, Stephen Ferrando, Anthony (Tina) Ferrando, Sunnie (Nicholas) Tobias and Reagan Bifarella. She is great-grandmother to Luca and Mira Ferrando and Max Tobias. She is also survived by a sister-in-law, Connie Prior and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family wishes to extend their deepest appreciation to the staff of the NYS Veterans Home for their excellent care while she was a resident.

There will be no prior calling hours. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 25 at 9:30 a.m. at Resurrection Parish, 303 East Main Street, Batavia. She will be interred with Len at the St. Aloysius Roman Catholic Cemetery, Springville.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Legion, 83 Market Street, Attica, NY 14011 or the Attica Volunteer Fire Department, 11 Water Street, Attica, NY 14011.

Please leave a condolence, share a story or light a candle at www.bataviafuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements for Georgianna were entrusted to the H.E. Turner & Co. Funeral Home, Batavia, (585) 343-8868.

Hiram Kasten saw the light flash before his eyes, as he so often did when he was a young comedian in the New York comedy clubs during the late 1970s and 1980s, meaning his time was up and start wrapping up his set. This time it was to make his exit from this worldly stage to another. Waiting in the wings would be his beloved mother, Mildred “Marsha” Polansky Kastenbaum, with arms open wide to hold her precious son once more. There beside her, would be his sweet and loving father, Samuel “Jimmie” Kastenbaum, ready to place his Yankee cap on his head, as he so often did as a child, for his final outing. Both his parents having predeceased him. His devoted sister, Sari Spector Kastenbaum, who predeceased him also, would be waiting to share some familiar song with him to which she would have changed the lyrics to fit their own uniquely shared sense of humor. Walking to the stage door, they would be joined by his predeceased mother-in-law, Lois Quartley Kisiel, who cared for and loved him fiercely as if he were her own son. His kind and gentle father-in-law, Henry John Kisiel and his jovial and fun-loving brother-in-law, Kim Henry Kisiel, who both predeceased him, would be waiting to greet him with their happy smiles and extended hands.

On October 30, 1952, Hiram Kasten, (née Hiram Z. Kastenbaum) made his entrance onto his own wonderful and exciting stage. From the very beginning, he was predestined to be a performer, an entertainer, an actor and a comedian. He was born in The Bronx, on Clarke Place, just off the Grand Concourse and a mere mile walk to Yankee Stadium which became his childhood playground. His lifetime love of baseball began as a boy when he would watch “the greats” in person - Mickey Mantle, Roger Maris, Whitey Ford, Yogi Berra and Elston Howard. He loved his Jewish neighborhood with corner candy stores and stickball with his friends. His extended family all lived within walking distance and he felt safe and secure in exploring this colorful and delightful world. His father took him on Shabbat to their small shtiebel for services, but often, times Hiram would ask to go to the larger Temple Adath Israel on the Grand Concourse. It was a beautiful synagogue with an organ and a choir and young Hiram connected with the theatrical splendor. He was and always remained a Bronx boy through and through. He prided himself on being a product of New York City’s great public school system from elementary through Taft High School and then CUNY’s Lehman College, where he majored in Theatre – all in his beloved Bronx.

His dream was always to become an actor, and immediately after college in 1974, he was cast by Israel Horovitz in a revival of his play “Line” at the 13th Street Repertory Theatre. After a few years of bouncing around the theatre scene, he decided he would try his hand at stand-up comedy. His first stop was an obscure jazz club on the Upper East Side called Pearl’s Place, where he made the musicians laugh more than the audience with his hip references and style. After a few times onstage there, he set his sights on an actual comedy club and walked into The Comic Strip. The Emcee was Jerry Seinfeld and he passed Hiram on his first audition and he became a regular. The two struck up a friendship that has lasted for 45 years.

The Comic Strip became Hiram’s home base and there he honed his craft as a comedian. Milton Berle once said, “There's a difference between being a comic and a comedian. A comic is a guy who says funny things, and a comedian is a guy who says things funny”. Writing an actual act was never the end goal for Hiram; he was, for better or worse, in the latter category of being able to “say things funny”. To Hiram, it was all about the performance and the desire to entertain. He channeled the greats in his demeanor onstage, always dressing for the occasion. With his open-collared shirts and natty sports jackets, always with a pocket hanky billowing forth, he stood out amongst his peers. He was the “missing link” to another generation of comedians he watched as a child on TV. He emulated Alan King, Jackie Gleason and Jerry Lewis. He loved nothing better than donning one of his tailored suits or tuxedos and walking onstage for a show or a benefit and being entertaining. His comedy and demeanor were not some contrived gimmick to “put on” a character. He was the real deal. He belonged to a different time, a different generation, and he didn’t particularly care if he was not au courant. He was Hiram Kasten, and to know him and be his friend, one had to step into his world – and there were many who did, just to get a glimpse of what they were missing. His peers would come into the room to see him perform, not for his jokes or any semblance of great material, but for his panache and escape into a world of show business that was part vaudeville, part Catskills and a whole lot of Rat Pack. He always liked the piano players at the clubs to stay onstage while he was doing his set and follow him, and only the best could, like Eddie Rabin at Catch or Bob Sprayberry at The Strip. He would often break into song and then do a soft shoe across the stage. His act was never the same twice; his bits would never be in any order to get him that solid set he needed for “The Tonight Show” or Letterman. He liked being a free spirit, and he felt he was there to entertain, which was all he ever wanted to do, even at the detriment of furthering his career. “A truly charming guy”, the moniker given to him by the wonderfully talented artist and his dear friend Lori Field, could make audiences love him. He only had to take his cigarette case out of his inside pocket, take out a Kent, tap it on the case, pull out his black onyx lighter and then snap his fingers à la Jackie Gleason and say “smoke ‘em, if you got ‘em”. Then he would lift up his drink and toast the crowd and he was “off to the races” with the audience in the palm of his hand.

Hiram rode the wave that was the Comedy Boom of the 1980s. He performed in some club, somewhere in the tri-state area or on the road six nights a week. Monday was his self-imposed “night off”. The Comic Strip was his home base, and for many years, he was the resident Emcee. He also became a regular at Catch a Rising Star and occasionally The Improv, The Comedy Cellar and Caroline’s. He added to his club roster, Dangerfield’s, where he ran his own show every Sunday night for years. He got to work with and hang with many of the great comics and jazz artists that passed through there such as Jackie Mason, “Mr. B” Billy Eckstine and Sara Vaughan, besides Rodney himself. They would talk for hours in the Green Room and the bar after hours, all about show biz and they would regale him with their stories of how it used to be.

Around 1981, he worked a new club called The Big Apple. His first night there he spotted a waitress that caught his ever-roving eye. He asked another comic, Scott Blakeman, to make the introduction. She was a young actress, and the two found common ground in their love of theatre and the arts. Diana Kisiel started to make the scene at the clubs with Hiram. Their courtship went on for five years through the exciting days of the early 80s comedy boom. They forged lifelong friendships with other young comedians, singers, musicians, actors and artists of the day, all beginning their careers. Their life and the lives of their friends were heady days. Hiram and his fellow comedians made the rounds of the clubs in Manhattan during the weeknights. However, weekend gigs could be out on The Island or New Jersey and then come back to Manhattan for late-night sets at The Strip and Catch on the Upper East Side, The Improv on the West Side, or The Cellar in the Village. It was a big deal to have a show outside of town and then two or three spots in town on the weekend. One could actually make a living, and he did! After the clubs closed, they would do some late-night bar-hopping with fellow comedians, followed up by early morning repasts at some all-night diner or Chinatown. This went on for several years in the early 80s, and the shared dreams and ambitions of their fellow comedians and actors led to unshakeable bonds throughout their lives.

Hiram loved talking “shop” with his colleagues. He could pull out a reference that even they would marvel at how he knew that. If any of them got him on the phone, they had better be prepared for a

very long conversation that would go on for hours. There were so many stories in his head, but not being the writer or having that discipline, he very rarely put pen to paper. Hiram was in the moment, and if you weren’t there with him in that moment, then it would be lost forever.

Hiram and Diana married in 1986 in New York City in a storybook wedding at Park Avenue Synagogue and Tavern-on-the-Green. A year after their marriage, Diana gave Hiram an ultimatum: time to leave the Bronx and either get a house upstate and continue working as a stand-up, or move to LA and follow his dream of working as an actor in television which he always wanted, even more than stand-up. In 1987, they packed up their apartment and drove cross-country with their dachshund Petruchio for their next big scene change.

Some of their New York friends, comics and actors, had already gone out to the West Coast to find work in TV and film. By the late 80s, the mass exodus from New York to LA was in full swing. Having had the great camaraderie that was fostered in the New York comedy clubs, the couple and all of their New York friends had no trouble picking up where they left off and had their own very unique community. Diana even found apartments for several of the NY comics and writers, and their own little comedy compound developed in Hollywood. Immediately upon getting to LA, Hiram landed a recurring role in a pilot for CBS with Frank Langella and Sally Kellerman, called “Dr. Paradise.” Other roles followed in many sitcoms and some have become classics. He played Michael, a co-worker to Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), in “Seinfeld.” He had guest starring roles in “Mad About You,” “Everybody Loves Raymond,” and “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Some of his other TV credits included “7th Heaven”, “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” “Brooklyn Bridge,” “Without a Trace,” “Saved by the Bell,” “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” “Brotherly Love,” “My Wife and Kids,” “Men of a Certain Age,” “Dirty Sexy Money,” “Fat Actress,” “Yes, Dear,” “State of Grace,” “It’s Like, You Know...,” “Cybill,” “L.A. Law,” to name a few.

During this time, their daughter Millicent came along. Hiram loved being a dad and was a stay-at-home father for the first few years of Millie’s childhood. He would come up with new things for the two of them to do every day. Lots of times, it was to an audition, and she would sit amongst the waiting actors chatting up a storm. They would have a standing late lunch at Jerry’s Deli. Many times, other comedians would join them, and Millie would hear the stories, pick up the timing and repeat the jokes. Hiram adored his little girl, and when she would pull out a reference or make a callback, he was thrilled! He was always so proud of the show-biz education she got from him.

Out of all the roles he played, his most perfect part was yet to come. Television writer and producer, Don Reo and actor/musician David Cassidy were producing a show at The Desert Inn in Las Vegas based on the Rat Pack. They were casting for a Joey Bishop-like character to add the comedy element to the show. Don Reo asked two TV producer/writer friends, Jim Vallely and Ron Zimmerman, if they knew of anyone. The two suggested Hiram, and as luck would have it, he would be hosting that very evening a “roast” for Mike Rowe, the comedy writer/producer of such hits as “Family Guy” and “Futurama.” The roast was to be held at the world-famous Beverly Hills Friars Club, a place where the original Rat Pack ate and played cards. Unbeknown to Hiram, Don Reo and David Cassidy showed up at the Friars Club that evening to see for themselves. Never had a part and an actor been so ideally suited! Hiram killed, and before he knew it, he was mixing drinks in a tuxedo onstage in Vegas eight times a week!

One night during the run, the actor playing Sammy, was nowhere to be found. He was not able to make the show. Hiram, always the show biz trouper, believed “the show must go on!” Without missing a beat, Hiram decided he would play both parts. Much to the amazement and sheer terror of the cast and crew, he perfectly melded the two parts together onstage and seamlessly set up the cues for the other actors and the orchestra. The audience loved it! Diana, always thought the show should be called “Hiram Meets the Rat Pack.” Friends and family from both coasts came to see him, and the original Reo/Cassidy production “The Rat Pack is Back” was the toast of the town! His old friend Jerry Seinfeld gathered up some close friends – Paul Reiser, Larry Miller, Mark Schiff, Michael Richards, Mario Joyner, to name a few – and jetted them all in to catch the show at The Desert Inn. Word got out it was the show to see in Vegas! Again, that “truly charming guy” was in his element.

Hiram continued his stand-up by performing in clubs and on cruise ships. He traveled the world on luxury cruises such as Seabourn, Royal Viking and Princess. He was the consummate Master of Ceremonies and loved donning his tux and doing a benefit for some organization anywhere. His favorite was for a benefit in LA at The Beverly Hilton for Bar-Ilan University in Israel. He wished his parents could have been there to see their son, Tzvi Hersh (his Hebrew name), the boy from The Bronx, honor and introduce Jewish philanthropists and political figures who supported higher education in Eretz Yisrael. He had come a long way from Clarke Place.

After 25 years, Hiram and Diana moved to Batavia, New York, where Diana was born and raised and many of her family still lived. The decision to leave LA was a difficult one, but a necessary one for Diana. She wanted to be near her aging father after her mother had passed away; she had a family business in which she was a partner that she needed to attend to; they already had a house they only lived in during summer vacations when they visited her parents, their daughter would be attending Cornell University which was only two and a half hours away. So, they packed up and moved back East. Hiram went back and forth between Batavia and New York City for a few seasons, but the landscape had changed, as had the business. In 2016, Diana ran for Congress on the Democratic ticket in NY-27. Hiram was so proud and supportive of her. He was also thrilled to see his daughter graduate with Honors from Cornell University in Government and then later receive her Juris Doctor degree from Fordham University in New York.

In 2017, his health had taken a downturn, and he no longer performed or actively pursued his career. Never mentioning it to his friends, he carried on as usual over the phone and with trips to NY and LA. After seven years of fighting through a multitude of illnesses, including prostate cancer and his lifelong battle with Crohn’s disease, he only began to share the terminality of it all with his friends in the last six months. His great comedy and artistic community rallied to his side. Some made trips to Batavia to visit him, late night Zoom meetings with friends on both coasts ensued and went into the wee hours of the morning. On his first Zoom, he held court. He loved it and was at the top of his game, throwing down references to comedy history and recalling stories from the past. Diana said it prolonged his life for at least another two months to be able to laugh with his peers.

Hiram Kasten loved show business and lived his dream of being in show business. His most satisfying and greatest role, though, was as a family man. He loved being a dad to his beautiful and brilliant daughter who survives him, Millicent Jade Kastenbaum of Manhattan. Her many achievements in her young life and in her career as an Assistant District Attorney have made him burst with pride and love. He is survived by his beloved wife, Diana Kisiel Kastenbaum of Batavia, New York, who loved and tenderly cared for him until the end. Theirs was a great love affair. They were married on June 15, 1986, and he died in her arms the day after their 38th wedding anniversary. He is also survived by his brother-in-law, Kevin John Kisiel of Rochester, New York and several loving nieces and nephews and their children, as well as wonderful cousins on both sides of the family.

Funeral services will be at Schwartz Brothers-Jeffers Memorial Chapel, 114-03 Queens Boulevard in Forest Hills, New York. Burial will take place immediately after services at Mount Hebron Cemetery, 130- 04 Horace Harding Expressway, Flushing, New York.

A memorial service will be held in Los Angeles later this summer, time and place to be announced.

The family has asked that if anyone cares to make a memorial tribute that it be made in the form of a charitable donation to:

Crossroads House

https://www.crossroadshouse.com

Entertainment Community Fund (formerly The Actors Fund)

https://entertainmentcommunity.org

Noreen V. Zalewski, 90, of Corfu, passed away on Saturday June 15, 2024 at Brothers of Mercy in Clarence. She was born in Buffaloon March 6, 1934 to the late Michael and Suzanna (Kuczewski) Dzienciol. In addition to her parents, she is predeceased by her husband; Conrad J. Zalewski; son-in-law Kenneth Grant; son in law Ronald Brown; brothers, Robert Dzienciol and Norbert (Jeanne) Dzienciol.

She is survived by her daughters; Lou Ann (James) Walker of IN., Sue Ann Zalewski of Corfu, Cecelianne (Glenn) Seidel of North Tonawanda and Elizabeth Ann Brown of Corfu; 6 grandchildren Matthew Walker, Johnathon Walker, Erik (Nicole) Grant, Joshua (Corinna) Grant, Katelyn (Ryan) Brown and Nicholas Brown; 5 great-grandchildren Ethan, Alexis, Allison, Ashley and Andrew, one great-great-grandson, Finn, along with nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

Noreen retired from 20^th Century Buffalo Club. She was an avid reader, enjoyed crossword puzzles and loved to cheat at cards and scrabble. Mom was the Matriarch and heart of our family.

Friends and family are invited to call on Wednesday, June 19, 2024 from 4 to 7 PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, New York 14020. A 10:00AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, June 20, 2024 at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish 18 W Main St. Corfu, NY 14036. She will be laid to rest in St. Stanislaus Cemetery in Cheektowaga.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital www.stjude.org. To leave a message of condolence please visitwww.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.

Gertrude B. Penepent, 92, of Batavia, passed away on Friday June 14, 2024 at Evergreen Place in Brockport. She was born in Mt. Morris on September 19, 1931 to the late Joseph and Sarah (Palermo) Bellanca. In addition to her parents, Gertrude is predeceased by her loving husband; Angelo Penepent; son Thomas Penepent; sister Margaret (Samuel) Vangalio.

She is survived by her children; Robert (Darlene) Penepent of Stafford; Donald (Margaret) Penepent of CT., and Patricia (Robert) Connors of Brockport; sister Roseann (Raymond) Mayo of Geneseo; 6 grandchildren Sarah (David) Caiazza, Michele (Patrick) Herrmann, Stephen (Brittany) Penepent, Kelly (Joshua) Hanel, Caitlin Penepent and Johnathan Penepent; 5 great-grandchildren Angelo, Michela, Aidan, Madelyn and Jack; along with several nieces and nephews.

Mrs. Penepent worked for the Genesee County Treasurer’s Office for 26 years and worked for Dr. Homer Bull in Geneseo as well. She was a longtime member at St. Joseph’s Church in Batavia. She was a member of the St. Joseph’s Sodality and St. Jerome’s Guild. She was a past president of the County Republican Club and treasurer of the NYS Federation of Republican Women, along with being a member of the National Federation of Republican Women. Gertrude enjoyed going to Batavia Downs and playing the slot machines.

Friends and family are invited to call on Friday June 21^stfrom 3:00-7:00PM at Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329-333 West Main St. Batavia, New York 14020. A 9:30AM Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, June 22^ndat Resurrection Parish (St. Joseph’s site), 303 E. Main St. in Batavia. She will be laid to rest in St. Joseph’s Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Resurrection Parish or Crossroads Housewww.crossroadshouse.com. To leave a message of condolence please visitwww.gilmartinfuneralhome.com. Arrangements completed by Gilmartin Funeral Home, 329 West Main Street, Batavia, New York 14020.