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The Seneca Nation Commemoration Edition is a collection of submissions from members whom lost loved ones this past year in an effort to honor and give tribute. A notice was placed in the departments section with the option for family members to submit information in recognition of their deceased loved one. Our members are gone but never forgotten, they will be remembered as friends, loved ones, close confidantes, mentors, and live on through the next seven generations. It is our honor to remember them one last time as we are hopefully near to closing the chapter on this upsetting time in history.

• Seth Anderson
• Charla Bach
• Helen Beaver
• Marilyn Bennett
• Rickey Bennett
• William Berkmeyer
• KC Bomberry
• Ralph Bowen
• Wanda Brandl
• Sidney Brooks
• Donald Brooks
• James Buffalo
• Sandra Carbone
• June Conklin
• Reginald Crouse
• Stephen Crouse
• John Cunningham
• Ruby Dejac
• Alfred Deoca
• David Dunn
• Linda Fisher
• Alice Garcia
• Dallas Garlow
• Duane Gioffreda
• Shirley Goode
• David Gordon
• Tyson Halftown
• Dougla Hall
• Jesse Hart
• Laurie Henhawk
• James Hicks
• Jennifer Howe
• Melvin Huff
• Barbara Huff
• Francis Inabinet
• Debra Isaac
• Vernon Jacobs
• Valerie Jacobs
• Albert Jacobs
• Kimberly Jacobs
• Richard Jemison
• Cynthia Jemison
• Julie Jemison
• Daniel Jemison
• Francine Jimerson
• Austin Jimerson
• Brenda Jimerson
• Vernon Jimerson
• Sharon John
• Darryl John
• John Johnson
• Beverly Jones
• Janet Kenjockety
• Robert Kenjockety
• Norma Kennedy
• Diane Kennedy
• Sonya Kennedy-Zurek
• Barbara Klimowicz
• Frederick Lascelles
• Richard Lauer
• Blake Lay
• Leslie Lechot
• Linda Loomis
• Richard Loomis
• Hiram Marin
• Armand Maybee
• Gary Maybee
• Merwin Maybee
• Marc Mcdonald
• Marilyn Mitchell
• Christal Mitchell
• Cynthia Mohr
• Aletha Moses
• Leslie Murphy
• Suzanne Nephew
• Marta Nephew
• Dennis Nephew
• Dorothy Newman
• Nancy Nye
• Roy Pagels
• Patrick Parker
• Valerie Pierce
• Aaron Poodry
• Robin Post
• Steven Schindler
• David Schlicht
• Harold Smith
• Arletta Stevens
• Darren Stevens
• Charles Tallchief
• Sharyn Taylor
• Charles Territo
• Angel Thompson
• Michael Trombley
• Lance Twoguns
• Milburn Watt
• Kenneth Watt
• Elizabeth Williams
• John Williams
• Stacey Williams
• Michelle Williams

The post Seneca Nation Newsletter Memorial Edition 2020 appeared first on SNI Official Newsletter.

Charla Bach, 73 but young at heart, died early Monday morning, July 6, 2020 at Absolut Care of Allegany following a long illness.

Born October 18, 1946 in Salamanca, NY, she was the daughter of the late Glen T. Jimerson and Grace Crowe. She was married to William J. Bach, who predeceased her in 1993.

She was an enrolled member of the Seneca Nation of Indians and the Deer Clan.

Charla worked for the Seneca Nation of Indians for several years, and was a pioneer in the women’s movement, being elected as the first woman poormaster. She was the first Seneca Nation Bingo Manager in Steamburg, NY. In addition, she was a harness racehorse enthusiast and a member of the Michigan Harness Horseman’s Association. She was also the owner and operator of CB’s Bar and Club.

She was an avid bowler and played softball with the best of them. She was a faithful armchair Buffalo Bills fan and enjoyed watching the boys and her granddaughter play lacrosse. Charla enjoyed her rides through the Amish country and making new friends.

Charla was known as the “master beader” of the Allegany Territory. She taught many people her passion of beading, moccasins, and traditional dress making. Her work was seen and worn by many. She especially took great pride in beading traditional regalia for her community.

Surviving are: her beloved daughters, Melissa, Glenda, and Melinda; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and her dog, Isabelle.

She was predeceased by her sisters, Diane and Carol Jimerson, and brother, Warren Jimerson.

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Our Dad, Ralph Elliot Bowen, was born on August 8,1922 on Snow Street at Cold Spring on the Allegany Territory.  His parents were Francis and Bertha (Buck) Bowen.  His maternal grandparents were Augustus and Acsah (Logan) Buck.  His paternal grandparents were Esther Fatty and Wellman Bowen.  He was a 6^th generation grandson of Cornplanter.  Dad was the second oldest of five children.  His only sister, Lucille, died of pneumonia along with their mother in 1929.  Following the death of their father, Dad, Leslie, Elwood, and Acel lived with their maternal great grandfather Samuel “Oak” Fatty.  In time Dad and Elwood went to the Thomas Indian School (TIS). From there Dad went into the Civilian Conservation Corps followed by enlistment in the Army Air Force in December 1941.  He served as an aerial gunner on a B-24 that flew missions over Europe.  Upon his return home, he and my Mom, Annabell Clark, began our family.

At first glance there seems to be a lot of sadness in my father’s life story.  In those early days Senecas were generally born into poverty.  When both parents died Dad and his brothers were called orphans.  As young boys he and Elwood were sent to TIS leaving behind the only world they knew, but he spoke often and well of his life at TIS.  As young men he and his brothers went to war in a faraway place – an experience that haunted them for the rest of their lives.  Some would crumble under such circumstances.  Experiencing just one of these obstacles can defeat a person.  But my father persevered.

He and my Mom raised my sister, brother and me in Red House in a little two-room house with green slate shingles on one side and tar paper on the other sides.  By example he showed us how to pump water, chop wood, tend a wood stove, raise chickens, cook fish along the river bank, garden, drive a car.  Our reward for weeding the garden on a hot summer day was a long walk to the local swimming hole.  There were stretches of joblessness, no money and empty cupboards, but he never lost faith.  He took us to church every Sunday in Red House.  When Kinzua happened he told us about our treaties and explained sovereignty to us – long before the word was fashionable.  A lacrosse player and snow snake thrower as a young man, he organized the Allegany Arrows about 1970.  He rounded up donations and kicked in a few of his own hard earned dollars to buy sticks and pads.  His first language was Seneca and he devoted years and energy to keeping our language alive.  He demonstrated community leadership by serving multiple terms on Council and sitting as a Peacemaker for many years.  He was once the Chief Marshal.  He showed us what determination was when he became the oldest student to ever graduate from the police academy at JCC.

I could go on about my Dad, telling you about what a great father that Jackie, Dennis and I were blessed with.  Those of you who have experienced the loss of a loving parent know what we are feeling.  On December 7, 2020 at the age of 98 years and one day short of four months Dad went to his true home with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  I can only imagine the reunion!  He’s eternal now, his health is restored, his joy knows no bounds, and we are assured we will be with him one day – then for eternity.  The Bible says the first and greatest gift from God is love (1 Co. 13:13).  For us that great gift was our Dad – always demonstrating unconditional love – no matter what we did!

To those who spent time with us during those difficult days, said a prayer, sent a card or message, called us, sent food, we are forever grateful.  Let’s continue to demonstrate that greatest gift – love.

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In memory of our son, brother, uncle and friend, James “Jimmy” Buffalo. He was of the turtle clan and enrolled with the Seneca Nation. He was the 1st member on the Allegany Territory to succumb from the Coronavirus at the young age of 44.

Our hearts were broken into a million pieces, something we wish on no one. What keeps him alive in our hearts are of our memories with him. He had a heart of gold and would help anyone.

As a little guy, he’d find old rusted bikes, take them apart, polish every piece and put it back together, thus having a brand new bike. They always shined and carried that into adulthood, doing the same thing to his vehicles.

His mother Cathy was his number one gal. He would of gone to the ends of this earth for her, as she would for him. He was the protector of his sisters, Danette and Sonny- just ask anyone who tried dating them. As for his brother Ed, it was a bond never to be broken. His nieces and nephews were the light of his life. They loved their uncle and his many stories and laugh sessions.

It’s funny how you sit and think of all the memories but can only put a few on paper. One that will stick with all of us is when we had the tax uprising and expressways were shut down. Of course Jimmy was there to do what he believed in. Little did he know that it would happen again, even for just a moment. You see, during his last drive on this earth, the traffic leading to the cemetery was backed up, momentarily stopping the flow of traffic on the expressway. It was an amazing sight. I can just hear him laughing and saying, “I did it myself Kim!”

Please take the time to hug your loved ones and show them the love you feel for them. You never know when it will be your last chance.

We miss him more each day that passes, however, knowing he is free, can see, and feel no pain or misery gives us some peace of mind.

We miss you Jimmy. “Till we meet again.” 10/16/75 – 4/24/20

Obituary

Mr. James “Jimmy” E. Buffalo, 44, of Old Route 17, Jimersontown, died Friday, April 24, 2020, at Olean General Hospital following a short illness.

Born October 16, 1975, in Olean, NY, he was the son of Cathy and Kim Redeye of Salamanca, NY.

Mr. Buffalo was a member of the Seneca Nation of Indians and the Turtle Clan.

He had been employed with the Seneca Nation of Indians throughout his life.

Jimmy loved being with his family, especially his nieces and nephews, and his dogs Chopper and Gaiyowah.

Surviving besides his moms are: three sisters, Danette Buffalo, Sonny Buffalo, Cassie (Larry) Ballard, all of Salamanca, NY; a brother, Edward (Carli) Buffalo, Coldspring, NY; four nieces, Lindzy and Darelyn Buffalo, both of Salamanca, NY, Graci Dee Buffalo, Coldspring, NY, Erika Ballard, Salamanca, NY; six nephews, Derek and Creedence Redeye, both of Salamanca, NY, Caiden and Moagi Buffalo both of Coldspring, NY, Daryl Buffalo, Salamanca, NY, Michael Ballard, Salamanca, NY; aunts, Maureen Redeye, Salamanca, NY, Marlene Crouse, Coldspring, NY; uncles, Martin (Joyce) Crouse, Curtis “Otto” (Sally) Watt, both of Salamanca, NY; many cousins.

He was predeceased by his maternal grandparents, LaVerne and Corinne Dowdy Redeye and his aunt, Amy (Richard) Redeye

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Alfred Montes Deoca, 85, passed on March 2, 2020 at Autumn View Health Care Facility in Hamburg, NY. He was the son of Pauline Snow and Henry Montes De Oca.

Al was a kind and generous person, always offering a helping hand to neighbors and family, no matter the distance, and never asking anything in return. He was the first in line when work was needed and the last helping finish a job. Some jokingly called him the mayor of Buffalo, as walking with him anywhere in the city was to see faces light up with a smile and wave.

Al was a devoted employee, first for the Gurley Novelty Co., famed for their Christmas candles, and then for two decades at the Gioia Pasta Co. Known for his work ethic, he often had to be urged to take a break. In his later years, he moved to the Autumn View nursing home, where he continued to spread his good nature, greeting everyone and always offering a helping hand. He truly embodied the word selfless and was always seeking ways to be of service to others.

Al is survived by four brothers, Richard, Henry, Clifford, and Raymond, two sisters, Maria Corwin and Rosalie Deoca, and numerous adoring nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents, his sister Juanita Ortel, and his brother Fernando.

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JIMERSON – Brenda (Twoguns); June 11, 2020 of the Seneca Cattaraugus Territory at the age of 66. Beloved of Douglas Jimerson. Loving mother of Angela Jimerson Rea of Salamanca, Christa, Jeremy and the late Travis W. Jimerson. Grandmother of Brandon, Jillian, Ethan, Jayden and Gavin. Sister of Leif Twoguns, Carolyn White, Allan Jackson and the late Donna Mohawk.

Private funeral services were held at the family’s convenience. Arrangements by Wentland Funeral Home North Collins, NY. Condolences may be made at www.wentlandfuneralhome.com.

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Submitted by Arlene Bova

Vernon “Barney” Jimerson will be remembered for love he had for his family. Uncle Barney enjoyed gathering with his extended family and always pushed for get togethers, even playing Santa at Christmas.

He also felt it was important to honor and remember the Treaty of Canandaigua. He submitted annual articles and facts on the anniversary to the Seneca Nation Newsletter for members to learn our history.

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Darryl was the BEST husband, father and papa. He was loved so much and is missed so much! He loved lacrosse and the Allegany Arrows. He enjoyed cooking and baking …we miss his baked goods! He enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren. He enjoyed the outdoors, hunting and fishing, and lacrosse, which he coached for many years as his son Dakota played. Everyone he met always had a special place in his heart.

• Your loving family

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James E. Hicks transitioned from labor to reward on December 19, 2020 at the Hudson Park Rehabilitation Nursing Center in Albany, NY.

James (Jim) Edward Hicks was born in Cortland, NY on January 14, 1946 to the late Harold E. and Patricia Patterson Hicks.

His family attended Grace Episcopal and Holy Spirit Lutheran Church where he served as an Alter Boy.

Jim was educated in the City of Cortland school system. He was an avid golfer and was successful in getting his family interested in the sport. He attended Ithaca College and graduated with a degree in Music.

After graduation, he taught music in the elementary schools. His professional career included positions at Phillip Morris Inc. where he formed a musical chorale for its annual Christmas program. He held various positions in the accounting field.

Jim was a founding member, along with Pastor Dennis O’Neill, of the Living Gospel Baptist Church in Rutherford, NJ which was chartered in 1973. Jim and Pat (Patricia Estelle Lennon) were married at the Living Gospel March 7, 1981.

Jim joined the Salvation Army in Troy, NY where he played piano for 20 years. He was appointed Corps Sergeant Major and served for over 5 years. He also became and instructor for students in the Salvation Army program.

Jim was predeceased by his parents, Harold and Patricia Patterson Hicks and his daughter, Badia Hicks. He leaves to mourn his passing, his wife, Patricia Estelle Hicks, of Green Island, NY; brother Jon Hicks, of Cortland, NY; niece Nicole (Julius) Bolding of Chesapeake, VA; nephew, Bryan (Kim) of Valdosta, GA; mother-in-law, Irene Lennon of Queens, NY and brother-in-law, Roger Lennon of Virginia Beach, VA.

Donations may be made to the Salvation Army, 410 River Street, Troy, NY 12180.

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