Dagon Funeral Home

05/08/2026

Hornell, NY / Canisteo, NY

Justine N. Bradford – 27 – of Terry St., Hornell, died unexpectedly Tuesday morning (May 6, 2026) at St. James Hospital due to complications stemming from her longtime battle with Crohn’s Disease.

Born in Hornell on March 4, 1999, she was the daughter of Shauna (Matthew) Goodwin and Robert “Bobby” (Kristen) Bradford. Justine was named after her great-grandmother (Shauna’s Dad’s Mom), Jeanette Justine Gardner.

Justine grew up in Canisteo where she attended Canisteo Central School until her sophomore year. Transferring to Hornell High School during her junior year, she graduated from HHS in 2017. While in Canisteo and Hornell, Justine played Modified Basketball and also played in the Cinderella Softball League. She later attended Alfred State College (SUNY Alfred).

She had been employed as a waitress / cook at several restaurants including the Alfred State College Food Service, Pasquale’s Restaurant in Buffalo and the Swain Ski Center. She had also been employed for a time at the Dollar General Store in Canisteo.

Justine loved music, singing & fall time. She also enjoyed working on puzzles and spending time with family & friends.

Surviving are her mother & step-father, Shauna & Matt Goodwin of Hornell; her father & step-mother, Robert “Bobby” & Kristin Bradford of Hornell; maternal grandparents, Greg (Wendy Stage) Evingham of Gouverneur, NY, Brenda (Carl Trevino) McDaniels of Canisteo, Patrick McDaniels of Hornell; paternal grandparents, Robin Rideout of Hornell, Daniel Bradford, Sr. of Hornell; 3 brothers, Brayden Evingham, Gavin Palmer and Bryson Bradford all of Hornell; 3 sisters, Jasmine Evingham of Canisteo, Kourtney Bradford of Hornell and Brooke Beaver of Hornell; her God Mother, Chelsea Eason of Watkins Glen, NY; along with several aunts, uncles & cousins.

At Justine’s request there will be no calling hours. A “Celebration of Life” will be held at a time & place to be announced.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Justine’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America, 733 Third Ave, Suite 510, New York, NY 10017.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

05/06/2026

Good luck, Red Raiders!

𝐇𝐎𝐑𝐍𝐄𝐋𝐋 𝐏𝐋𝐀𝐘𝐒 𝐅𝐈𝐍𝐀𝐋 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐓𝐎 𝐁𝐀𝐂𝐊 𝐆𝐀𝐌𝐄𝐒! The Red Raiders lost to Haverling on Monday, defeated Geneseo yesterday, and travel to #1 Livonia today! Game time is 5:30pm. Watch all the action on PEISH SPORTS YouTube Channel!
𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐄𝐀𝐌 𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐊: https://youtube.com/live/ix1b7Nyn54k?feature=share
Post sponsored by Giovanni's Pizzeria Restaurant & Tim Hortons Southern Tier! Section V Baseball Livonia Bulldogs Baseball Hornell City School District LCAA's Finest

05/06/2026

Arkport, New York

Gary R. Recktenwald – 78 – of North Augusta, SC, formerly of Arkport, died unexpectedly on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Piedmont Hospital in Augusta, GA.

Born in Hornell on April 8, 1947, he was the son of George & Suzanne (Pruner) Recktenwald. Gary had been a communicant of St. Ignatius Loyola Church where he actually served as a church “grounds-keeper” in his youth by cutting grass and trimming bushes.

Gary grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School class of 1966. While living in Brockport, NY, he married to the former Alana Loohn (who died in 1984). He received his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Brockport State College (SUNY Brockport) and his Master’s Degree in Geography from the University of Florida.

After moving back to New York State, Gary & Alana resided in Arkport where Gary began his teaching career at Arkport Central School. During this time he continued his education by taking classes at Alfred University.
Gary served as a History teacher at Arkport Central School for 33 years and even after his retirement continued to serve as a substitute teacher for seven more years for a total of 40 years of educating the youth at Arkport Central School. During his teaching years he helped coach track, served as advisor for classes, Yearbook Advisor and later was the Ski Club Advisor. When subbing for art classes his love for art blossomed. He began drawing and painting which he continued throughout his life. During the summer months, Gary stayed busy painting houses with friends and a few previous years cleaning and maintaining Arkport Central School. Throughout the years, he owned several rental properties which also kept him busy with repairs and general maintenance.

Gary began traveling abroad with his wife Alana during the summer of 1969. They backpacked in Europe for two months. Then when Gary started teaching he began taking student groups to Europe with EF. He also included parents and family members. He traveled to 4 continents. Another big activity was family trips to Disney World. He went dozens of times and also collected hundreds of Disney pins. Gary’s love of collecting started with stamps and then when he was a Boy Scout he earned every patch on his way to becoming an Eagle Scout. He attended scout camp every summer. As a Boy Scout he joined a special group that learned beading and making American Indian costumes. Gary honored Native Americans by performing authentic dances in parades wearing ceremonial headdresses and costumes. He collected stamps, cards, coins, pocket watches and a variety of memorabilia. Gary also enjoyed his time spent golfing with friends & fellow teachers and belonged to a golf league at the Hornell Country Club. He loved building, construction and handyman work. He also loved spending time with his wife, children and grandchildren. Gary was genuinely warm-hearted. He found joy in every day.

In addition to his first wife, (and high school sweetheart) Alana Loohn, Gary was preceded in death by his brother, Robert “Bob” Recktenwald.

He was married on July 6, 1986 to the former Linda Sue Flaitz who survives. Also surviving are his children, Heidi (Brian) Lewis of Corning, Gary (Molly) Recktenwald of North Augusta, SC and George “Jake” Recktenwald of Greenwood, SC; his sister, Sally Della Villa of Mendon, NY; 4 grandchildren, Daniel Marino, Mary Ruth Ballard, Samuel Recktenwald and Lucas Recktenwald; along with many nieces & nephews.

The family of Gary R. Recktenwald will receive friends on Tuesday, July 7, 2026 from 12:00 Noon until 2:00 PM at the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY. A Memorial Service will be held at the conclusion of calling hours at 2:00 PM with Deacon Robert McCormick officiating. Following services there will be a memorial gathering for Gary at The Main Place, Hornell, NY. Family, friends and former students are invited from 3-6 pm. (Please let family know if you will attend.)

Gary’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to the Arkport Alumni Association, PO Box 28, Arkport, NY 14807. All donations go directly to student scholarships.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

05/04/2026

Hornell, NY

Ellen C. Couture – 48 – of Willow Place, Hornell, died Wednesday afternoon (April 29, 2026) at Strong Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Born in Rochester, NY on February 25, 1978, she was the daughter of John & Cheryl (Belanger) McNelis.

As a young child, Ellen lived in Chili, but she grew up in Caledonia and graduated from Caledonia-Mumford High School (class of 1996). She lived in Scottsville for most of her adult life, moving to Hornell in 2026.

Ellen was a devoted stay-at-home mom, a role she cherished beyond measure, before deciding to further her education about 10 years ago. She enrolled in Genesee Community College where she earned her Associate’s Degree in Human Services. Ellen’s nurturing personality led her to a career in helping others. She was employed at Changes and Changes, Inc. as a Domestic Violence Advocate and at Genesee ACE Employment Services as a Peer Advocate and Employment Specialist helping individuals select, obtain, and maintain employment. She was also a Community Action Volunteer from 2017-2020.

Gardening was one of Ellen’s passions. She enjoyed planting flowers, and, for a time worked in the landscaping industry. She was also proud of her sobriety and was an active participant in Alcoholics Anonymous. However, Ellen found the most joy spending time with her family. She also adored her feline companions, Mittens & Bubba.

Ellen is survived by her children, Daniel Couture of Mumford, NY, Spencer Couture of Mumford, NY, & Molly Rossborough of Dansville, NY; her mother, Cheryl McNelis of Hornell; 4 sisters, Lynne (Charlie Young) McNelis of Rush, NY, Mary Jackson of Anthem, AZ, Kathleen (Ryan) Cameron of Scottsville, NY, & Joyce (Jesse Balliett) McNelis of Corning, NY; 2 brothers, David McNelis of Hornell and William McNelis of Hornell; nephews, Cole & John Cameron and Wade & Devin Jackson; several aunts, uncles, & cousins.

She was preceded in death by her father, John A. McNelis who died February 21, 2013.

Family and friends are invited to a Memorial Mass on Friday, May 8, 2026 at 10:00 AM at St. Ann’s Church, 35 Erie Avenue, Hornell, NY with Father Stan Kacprzak officiating. Final interment will be in Saint Columba Cemetery, Caledonia, NY.

Ellen’s family requests that memorial contributions in her name be made to the Hornell Area Humane Society by visiting https://www.hornellanimalshelter.org/Donate.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, please visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com or www.facebook.com/dagonfuneralhome.

05/04/2026

Cameron Mills, NY

Deborah Ann Hassler, 65, of Cameron Mills, New York, passed away peacefully at home on May 1, 2026, surrounded by her four children, with her husband holding both of her hands.

Born on December 30, 1960, in Shipley, Bradford, Yorkshire, England, Deborah came to the United States at the age of six aboard the Queen Mary, beginning a life defined by courage, resilience, and adventure. She was the youngest of four children, a joyful and unexpected surprise to her parents a decade after their last child.

At just 15 years old, Deborah met the love of her life, Charles Hassler. Drawn to his rebellious spirit and big heart, she fell for him immediately.

They were married on August 22, 1981, and went on to share nearly 45 years of marriage and more than 50 years side by side, living a life full of adventure and misadventure in equal measure.

Together, they built a bond that was unbreakable and were often described by those who knew them as something like Bonnie and Clyde, and yes, there may have been a story or two to support that.

Deborah was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother who loved her family fiercely. She raised her four children to be strong, independent, and resilient, instilling in them the same grit and determination that defined her own life.

She was known for her fierce strength, her quiet grace, and her sharp sense of humor, which never left her, even in the hardest moments.

She fought a long and courageous battle with breast cancer, first diagnosed in 2021 and returning in 2026. Through it all, she remained deeply private, incredibly strong, and grounded in love for her family.

Deborah is survived by her beloved husband, Charles Hassler; her children, Chad Hassler and his wife Lauren, Sarah Hassler and her partner Craig, Jacob Hassler and his wife Nicole, and Rachel Nudd and her husband Jon; and her cherished grandchildren, Landon, Chase, Anthony, and Noelle, who brought her immense pride and joy. She is also survived by her siblings, Valerie Bernheiser, Pauline Bernheiser, and Barry Grieve.

Per her wishes, Deborah was cremated. There will be no formal service. Her family plans to scatter her ashes one day alongside her husband’s beneath the sycamore tree they planted together on their property, a place that reflects the life they built side by side.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Deborah’s memory to: Ronald McDonald House Charities of Rochester, 333 Westmoreland Dr., Rochester, NY 14620 (585) 442-5437) www.rmhcrochester.org

They lived boldly, loved fiercely, and never once chose the easy road.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

05/04/2026

7 years without our daughter, sister, and mother to Leo 💔 She sure is missed!
***

Sara Christine Dagon – 31 – of 32 Church St., Hornell, died unexpectedly Saturday (May 4, 2019) at her home.

Born in Hornell on September 12, 1987, she was the youngest daughter of Jim & Patty (Class) Dagon.

Sara grew up in Hornell and attended St. Ann School. She later graduated from Hornell High School (class of 2005). While in high school, she was a member of the Hornell Swim Team and the HHS Girls Modified Soccer Team. Following high school graduation, Sara attended Alfred State College, Monroe Community College, Fingerlakes College at Canandaigua and Buffalo State College. While attending Monroe Community College in Rochester, she was employed as a waitress at Flour City Diner.

For about 10 years, Sara resided in Florida where she worked as a waitress for several restaurants, including Flashback Diner in Ft. Lauderdale and IHOP Diner in Port St. Lucie. Returning to Hornell in 2015, she had served as a waitress at the Country Kitchen in Hornell and The Collegiate in Alfred. Most recently, Sara worked as a Day Care Provider for the Hornell Children’s Home, primarily at the After School Program at North Hornell School.

She was a member of Our Lady of the Valley Parish and a communicant of St. Ann’s Church. She was also a member of the Hornell Association.

Without a doubt, Sara will be remembered as a warm, compassionate girl who was loved by everyone. She really had no enemies except, maybe herself. For over 12 years, she struggled with opioid addiction. Throughout the years, Sara tried so hard to stay clean but it seemed almost impossible to do. She would be clean for months at a time and for some reason would relapse. In and out of rehab facilities became the norm.

In January, 2018, Sara received the good news that she was expecting a baby. She took the news very, very seriously and was determined to stay clean. On September 6, 2018, Sara gave birth to a beautiful, healthy baby boy — Leo James Dagon. Because of her addiction problems, Sara never thought that she would ever be blessed with a baby. Despite her decade long battle with opiates, Sara fulfilled her lifelong dream of becoming a wonderful, caring & loving mother. But, on Saturday, her demons resurfaced…….

If Sara could speak to the youth of today, she would plead to everyone listening to BE SCARED OF DRUGS — BE VERY SCARED OF DRUGS — STAY AS FAR AWAY FROM DRUGS AS POSSIBLE!!!

Sara was preceded in death by her paternal grandparents, Jim & Rickey Dagon; her maternal grandmother, Rosemary King; her maternal grandfather, Robert Class; her cousin, Jill Andolina; her uncle, Larry Clark.

Survivors include her 8 month old son, Leo James Dagon; her parents, Jim & Patty Dagon of Hornell; 3 sisters, Laura (Dr. Pasquale) Picco of Hornell, Jenny (Jeff) Reynolds of Arkport and Erin (Erik) Werner of North Hornell; her nieces & nephews, Nicholas Picco, Gennaro Picco, Pasquale “PJ” Picco, Marco Picco, Hannah Reynolds, Ethan Reynolds, Bryant Reynolds, Logan Werner, Harrison Werner & Evelyn Werner; many aunts, uncles & cousins.

At Sara’s family’s request there will be no calling hours. Family & friends are invited to attend a Mass of Christian Burial on Friday at 2:00 PM at St. Ann’s Church. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Sara’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in her name be made to St. Ann’s Academy, 41 Genesee St., Hornell, NY.

A special thank you to the caring staff at CASA-TRINITY in Dansville for their tireless dedication to those struggling with the disease of addiction.

04/30/2026

Addison, New York

Charles G. “Chuck” Allen, 75, of Addison, New York, passed away at home on April 26, 2026, after a short
battle with cancer.

Born on October 5, 1950, to Gilbert Allen and Lucille Phillips, Chuck was a lifelong Southern Tier resident who built his life on hard work, determination, and doing things his own way. He was a son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, nephew, and friend—known to many as a tough, no-nonsense man who could be difficult at times, but who also showed a surprising generosity to others.

Chuck grew up in Corning, New York, and graduated from West High School in 1970. During his school years, he worked at Kennedy Valve Corporation in Elmira, helping manufacture fire hydrants and parts, and later at Jones Pontiac in Corning in the body shop. After graduation, he continued his work at Jones Pontiac before moving on to a variety of roles, including truck driving for Chemung Contractors. He also spent time at the Painted Post Car-Mart and worked for Tom’s South Corning Collision.

In 1977, Chuck took a major step forward by establishing Allen’s Auto Body Shop in Painted Post. Just a few years later, in 1980, he purchased a gas station in Addison, renaming it Allen’s Auto—a business he proudly owned and operated for decades until his passing. Through his work, Chuck became a familiar face in the community, known for his skill, his work ethic, and his straightforward personality.

Chuck is survived by his wife, Connie Johnson Allen, whom he married on August 21, 1971; his daughter, Cindy Allen, and grandson, Nicholas Allen, of Corning, New York; his brothers, Bob Montgomery of Texas; Tom (Leslie) Allen of Florida; Bob (Becky) Allen, Jim (Cheri) Allen, and Steve (Barbara) Allen, all of Indiana. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews cousins, extended family including Jeremy and Karen Clarkson of Corning, New York, and many special friends. He will also be missed by his beloved cat, Charlie.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Joe Allen of Florida.

A celebration of Chuck’s life will be held on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Fran’s Landing, 996 Addison Rd, Painted Post, NY.

In honor of Chuck, donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, Shriners Children's Hospital, Pancreatic Cancer Alliance, Pawz and Purrz Animal Rescue, or the Chemung County Humane Society and SPCA.

Chuck lived life on his own terms—steadfast, stubborn, and committed to his work. While he could be rough around the edges, his presence left a lasting impression on those who knew him well, and his legacy will carry on through the business he built and the community he served.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

04/30/2026

Have you ever watched a girls flag football game? 🏈

Take a look at the highlights from PEISH SPORTS... The Hornell Lady Raiders and Canisteo-Greenwood Lady Chargers - two really good teams! They are fun to watch!

04/30/2026

Hornell, New York

Merle R. Newell – 88 – of Locust Dr., Hornell, died Monday evening (April 27, 2026) at the Vincent House in Wayland, following a long illness.

Born in Cuba, NY on April 15, 1938, he was the son of Merle & Ida (Gray) Newell.

Merle grew up in Hornell where he attended Hornell public schools. He had been employed for a time at the former Max Wilkins Auto where he worked painting cars.

A veteran of the United States Army, Merle served his country from 1961 - 1966. While in the Army, he contracted lead poisoning and from that point on was unable to work. Following his honorable discharge from the US Army, Merle returned to the Hornell area and for most of his adult life resided on the Old Big Creek Road.

Merle was a former member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints in Hornell. In his younger years, Merle enjoyed deer hunting and also became a collector of old Hornell post cards, rare coins, postage stamps and old bottles. He was an avid Buffalo Bills Football fan --- especially during the Super Bowl years. Merle also had a love of animals (especially cats) and would actually feed a wild bear on his property.

In addition to his parents, Merle was preceded in death by 3 brothers, James Newell, Charles Newell and Jerry Newell (who died just one day before Merle’s death); his sister, Ida Schmitz.

Surviving are his sister, Betty (Norman) Avery of Hornell; his brother, George Newell of Hornell; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Newell of Rochester; along with nieces & nephews.

At Merle’s request there will be no calling hours. Interment with military honors will be held at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Merle’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Vincent House , PO Box 566, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

04/30/2026

Hornell, New York

Jerry E. Newell – 86 – of Locust Dr., Hornell, died unexpectedly early Sunday morning (April 26, 2026) at St. James Hospital.

Born in Cuba, NY on October 24, 1939, he was the son of Merle & Ida (Gray) Newell.

Jerry grew up in Hornell and was a graduate of Hornell High School (class of 1958). He later continued his education by taking several college courses. He was a veteran of the United States Air Force, serving his country from 1958 – 1964.

Throughout the years, Jerry resided in several locations, including Arcade, Buffalo and Albany. While living in Albany, he was employed for over 20 years at Consolidated Freight Lines, retiring as Freight Operations Manager.

Jerry loved the outdoors and enjoyed hunting (especially deer), fishing (lake & streams) camping and diving. He was also an avid golfer.

In addition to his parents, Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, who he met & married while in his 60s and who died January 12, 2025. He was also preceded in death by 2 brothers, James Newell and Charles Newell; his sister Ida Schmitz.

Surviving are his sister, Betty (Norman) Avery of Hornell; 2 brothers, Merle Newell (who would die the very next day) and George Newell, both of Hornell; his sister-in-law, Marilyn Newell of Rochester; along with 2 step-children, nieces & nephews.

At Jerry’s request there will be no calling hours. Interment with military honors will be held at the Bath National Cemetery at the convenience of the family.

Funeral arrangements are in care of the Dagon Funeral Home, 38 Church St., Hornell, NY.

Jerry’s family request that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in his name be made to The Vincent House , PO Box 566, 310 Second Ave., Wayland, NY 14572.

To leave an online condolence or share a memory, visit www.dagonfuneralhome.com.

04/28/2026

I (Laura) came across this old newspaper clipping of my Grandfather from 1949 as he began his career as the 3rd generation funeral director.

I love hearing stories about him. I was only 7 years old when he died in 1983. Do you remember him?