Erie County Cremation Service

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Erie County Cremation Service

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Erie County Cremation Service Erie County Cremation Service was founded in 1985 and is WNY’s longest operating cremation service.

We are fully licensed by the State of New York Department of Health and would be honored to assist you with making pre-arrangements in your home, on the phone, or at our facility. Cremation options include:
(1) Direct Cremation;
(2) Private Family Viewing (ID) with Cremation to Follow;
(3) Direct Cremation with Memorial Gathering to Follow;
(4) Traditional Funeral Service with Cremation to Follow

Erie County Cremation Service website: www.eriecountycremationservice.com

Address:
873 Abbott Rd., Buffalo, NY 14220

Phone Number:
716-824-6435

10/13/2026

LEVY – Karen A. (nee McMullen)

April 11, 1956 – September 23, 2026

Karen celebrated life’s small miracles.

The fact that you breathe without thinking about it.

The warmth of the sun on your skin.

The ability to learn, to change, and to connect with others.

That capacity to experience the world is a rare and extraordinary gift.

Karen loved her friends and she’d ask you to be kind to yourself and live well. Not because you must, but because you get to.

Beloved wife of Richard Z. Levy; dearest mother of Dana and Michael Levy; loving daughter of Noreen (Lambert) and the late Albert E. McMullen; sister of Raymond (late Leigh Ann) McMullen and the late Brian McMullen; sister-in-law of Kenneth Levy and Rick (Caren) Swenson; aunt of Jenny McMullen, Jamie McMullen-Bandla, Max Marschark and Luke Marschark; also survived by grand nieces and nephews, and many friends in both the USA and Canada.

Karen served as an elder in her church for many years. She gave her time, wisdom, and caring presence to her church family, always ready to help and encourage others. Her efforts and passion reflected the kindness and generosity that were an important part of who she was.

Karen also showed love through her creativity. She was an avid seamstress and advised customers at JoAnne Fabrics for many years. She enjoyed creating family keepsakes—special gifts that carried her love and thoughtfulness. She embroidered expertly with patience and skill and enjoyed crafting personalized cards to thank, encourage, and celebrate the people in her life. They were the ways she expressed her love and care. Through the work of her hands, she reminded people that they truly mattered to her.

We grieve because we miss Karen—her presence, her kindness, and the special way she bought warmth and connection into our lives. We mourn but we are hopeful. Karen trusted in God’s love and her friends of faith will find comfort in knowing that Karen is held in God’s care. They look forward to the day when they will be reunited with her.

Karen’s love lives on in friendships cherished, stories we tell, and the lives she touched. Her example is a reminder of a woman who cared deeply about those she touched.

May God comfort all who mourn Karen’s passing. May we remember her with tenderness and gratitude, and may we honor her by carrying her thoughtfulness, creativity, and love forward in our own lives. May we be thankful for an end to her suffering and rejoice by celebrating her life.

No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service, Saturday, October 17, 2026 at Deerhurst Presbyterian Church, 257 Deerhurst Park Blvd., Buffalo, NY, 14223 at 11 AM. Her Memorial Service is available via livestream at https://sites.google.com/site/deerhurstproject/. Memorial contributions may be made in Karen’s honor to Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com

Online Remembrance Page: https://www.eriecountycremationservice.com/obituaries/karen-levy

10/13/2026

BEECHLER – Michael John

November 3, 1951 – October 11, 2026

Of Farmersville, NY. After a long journey with multiple illnesses, Michael passed away peacefully while receiving comfort care in North Java. Memorial contributions may be made to Charlotte House, 4316 Rt. 98, North Java, NY 14113.

Michael is survived by his wife Bonnie (Braymiller) Beechler; and his siblings, LeeAnn (Bob) Day, Sue (Mike) Ash, and Steve (Janet) Beechler; and many nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his brother Patrick and his parents, Elmer and Peggy Beechler.

He was a man who lived life on his own terms, and he had a love for adventure that was evident in his passion for skydiving. With more than 750 jumps to his credit, he embraced the thrill of the skies and the freedom that came with it.

An avid hunter and sportsman, he cherished the outdoors and was actively involved in local conservation clubs, including being president of the Pioneer Winter Trap League for 7 years. He enjoyed visiting with his friends at the Franklinville Conservation Club in later years. Together with his wife Bonnie, he had a deep appreciation for nature and the traditions he held dear.

Michael worked for many years at Volland Electric where he was known for his ability to work with the crane and hoist department, and for his practical skills. He was a natural problem solver, exceptionally clever with his hands, and he could build or figure out just about anything.

Beyond his many talents and adventures, he will be remembered as a good friend with a wonderful sense of humor. He had a way of bringing laughter to those around him, and his friendship, wit, and unique way of looking at life will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

There will be no viewing. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at a later date when the family and friends can gather to remember, share stories, and honor a life well lived. He will be greatly missed and fondly remembered.

Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

10/08/2026

KEIM – Milton C.

July 23, 1930 – October 6, 2026

Of Williamsville, NY. Beloved husband of Elenore H. (Klussmann) Keim; dearest father of Susan E. Schneider, Christel E. (Mark) Kasprzak and Eric F. (Patricia) Keim; grandfather of Joshua (Stephanie) Keim, Sarah (David) Levan, Jacob (Kara) Keim, Andreas (Kimmy) Schneider, Alexander Schneider, Michael (Alexa) Kasprzak and Stephen (Lauren) Kasprzak; great-grandfather to 8 great-grandchildren; loving son of the late Conrad and Marie L. (Rumpf) Keim; brother of the late Norman (Gloria) Keim; cousin of Guenter (Arline) Schneider; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service at St. Peter's United Church of Christ - West SenecaS, 1475 Orchard Park Rd., West Seneca, NY, Sunday, October 18, 2026 at 1 PM. Mr. Keim was owner of Keim’s Meat Market and Bald’s Meat Market and a member of Harmonie Lodge No. 699, Free and Accepted Masons of New York in Buffalo, NY for 70 years, Shrine Chanters and Buffalo Schwaben Chor for more than 65 years. Memorial contributions may be made to Dunkirk Conference Center. Mr. Keim was a US Army Veteran of the Korean War. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

10/07/2026

CANAZZI - Joanne R. (nee O'Brien)

October 15, 1935 - October 6, 2026

Of the Town of Tonawanda, NY. Beloved wife of the late Anthony A. Canazzi; dearest mother of Keith A. (Linda A.) Canazzi and the late Kim A. (Arthur) DiFlavio; grandmother of 7 and great-grandmother of 5; sister of Carol (Joseph) Davis, Raymond (Joanne) O'Brien, Michael (Kathy) O'Brien and the late Donald (Vivian) O'Brien, Joyce Hirschfelt and Patricia Seaman; also survived by nieces, nephews and many friends. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

10/06/2026

CAPOZZI - Robert

February 9, 1955 - September 30, 2026

Of Lancaster, NY, passed away on September 30, 2026, after a sudden illness at age 71. He was at home and surrounded with love by his family until the very end. Bobby was born February 9, 1955, in Buffalo to the late Michele and Theresa (née Dascoli) Capozzi, and grew up in Buffalo and Amherst, NY. Known to everyone as Bob or Bobby, he was larger than life. Filled with warmth and humor, Bobby was a gentle man with a heart of gold. He never met a stranger and saw the best in everyone. He would talk to anyone, anywhere, for as long as they'd let him, and most people walked away feeling like they'd known him for years. He looked out for everyone, especially those who needed it most. Bobby ran his own business as a builder, real estate investor, and landlord, and he loved the work. He also spent years in medical transportation. He greeted patients with a smile and made sure they got safely to the care they needed, building lasting friendships along the way. But nothing came before his family. Bobby was selfless and inspired his kids to think big and chase their dreams. His love for the human spirit led him to be a conscientious objector and inspired his children to fight for what they believe in. He was a provider, a teacher, a role model, and was so proud of his family. And then there were the Bills. Bobby’s passion, loyalty, and love for the Buffalo Bills were unmatched and shared with all. He was carried into "The Rockpile" as a young boy with his brothers, and later carried his own young son into The Ralph to keep the tradition alive, holding out hope for a Super Bowl victory. Bobby is survived by his beloved wife of 46 years, Jacqueline (née Aquilino) Capozzi; his children Kara, Robert (Dana), and Alexandria (Felipe); and his sister, Barbara Capozzi (Igino). He was predeceased by his parents and his brothers, Michael and Anthony. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435. Please share your condolences at: www.eriecountycremationservice.com

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

10/01/2026

WALSH – Neal G. Sr.

June 30, 1960 – September 30, 2026

Of Depew, NY. Beloved husband of Debra J. (Ricchiazzi) Walsh; dearest father of Paul G. Schloerb Jr., Dawn M. (Jason) Kilianski, Neal G. (Melissa) Walsh Jr. and Lisa M. (Daniel) Garigen; grandfather of Cecilia, Nicholas, Harrison, Tyler, Paige, Bennett and Brooks; brother of Mark (Kathy) Walsh and David (Jeniffer) DuBey; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. Family and friends are invited to attend a Celebration of Life Gathering, Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 3-7 PM at the Fraternal Order of Eagles, 4569 Broadway, Depew, NY 14043. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

09/30/2026

NOWAK - Nancy E.
June 22, 1947 - September 30, 2026
Of Sloan, NY. Loving daughter of the late Eugene J. and Florence B. (Walek) Nowak; sister of Barbara J. (Robert) Mackiewicz and the late Robert Nowak; aunt of Jill (Sean) Stulak and Robert Mackiewicz; great-aunt of Hunter Stulak. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

09/29/2026

HOFFMAN - John E. "Yogi"

August 8, 1940 - September 24, 2026

Of West Seneca, NY. Beloved husband of Eleni A. (Katsinis) Hoffman; dearest father of John A. Hoffman, Wendy Hoffman Merecki and the late Kristin Hoffman Jelley; also survived by grandchildren; brother of the late Theresa (Walter) Urbanczyk and Joseph (Diane) Krzanak; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Mr. Hoffman was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam War. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

09/26/2026

ABRAHAM - Robert J.

July 30, 1940 - September 19, 2026

Of Bath, NY. Beloved husband of the late Gayle H. (Pasnak) Abraham; dearest father of Thomas E. (Jennifer) Abraham and Lori A. (Paul) Nowadly; grandfather of Anna (Luke) Forbes, Thomas Abrhaham, Julia Abraham, Paul and David Nowadly; loving son of the late Joseph E. and Thelma O. (Webster) Abraham; brother of the late Thomas Abraham. Much appreciation to treasured friend and caregiver, AnnMarie Robinson. Mr. Abraham retired from the Steuben County Sheriff's Department and always worked two jobs. He deeply loved his family. Robert was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam Era. The family extends their deepest gratitude to all the staff at Father Baker Manor (Catholic Health) for their exceptional care and kindness. Interment Bath National Cemetery. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., South Buffalo, NY, 716-824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

09/24/2026

RATAJCZAK - Walter S. Jr.

March 10, 1936 - September 20, 2026

Of Hamburg, NY. Beloved husband of Karen (Gapinski) Ratajczak; dearest father of Cynthia A. (Paul) Goddard, Gary M. (Gina) Ratajczak and Sandra A. (late Mark) Hanna; grandfather of 7 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren; loving son of the late Walter S. Sr. and Rose (Czerniak) Ratajczak; brother of the late Ronald (Mary Ann) Ratajczak; also survived by nieces and nephews. No prior visitation. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the convenience of the family. Mr. Ratajczak was a US Postmaster in the Town of Clarence from 1973-1978, and the Town of Hamburg from 1978 until retirement in 1993. He was also a US Navy Veteran of the Korean War. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care Buffalo. Arrangements by: ERIE COUNTY CREMATION SERVICE, 873 Abbott Rd., Buffalo, NY, (716) 824-6435.

Please visit the Erie County Cremation Service website to view full obituary.

Address

873 Abbott Road
Buffalo, NY
14220

Telephone

+17168246435

Website

http://www.eriecountycremationservice.com/

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