Christopher Ayers (1976)

I was surprised when the alumni site noted that Lee had passed away, even more surprised that no additional information was given. I was hesitant to post anything because In truth Lee and I were friends only as little kids when we both lived on Chateau Terrace. My family moved away and I attended a different Elementary School. Lee and I were not back in the same school again until Amherst. By then too much time had passed and, as young adults, we were never more than nodding acquaintances. None the less her passing stuck with me, perhaps because in my mind’s eye she, and by extension I, are still little kids learning how to ride our bikes.  I do recall she seemed poised for success, Editor of the school newspaper, active in sports (Lacrosse? Soccer? Both?) and involved in many other activities. I was not able to learn much about Lee’s life but I did find out that Lee had been living in Topanga California (between Santa Monica and Malibu) for about ten years. Lee passed away on January 4^th 2003 at the age of 44. After passing Lee was returned to the Buffalo area, was laid to rest next to her father and later joined by her mother. If anyone wishes to pay their respects, Lee was laid to rest at Saint John Cemetery in Cheektowaga. As for myself I don’t think I will visit. To me Lee is, and will always be, my friend, the little girl down the street, who is also learning how to ride a bike.

Cliff Wadsworth (1972)

Hello Christopher,  I think your post is very well written and can tell it came from your heart.  My condolences.

Susan M Lojacono (1976)

Hi Chris,

As Class Director, I don't get very much information when one of our classmates passes away.  Its either what I see in an obituary, or one of our classmates reaches out. Also, I do not want to invade someone's privacy as to their cause of death, so I don't ask, and I certainly don't offer those details.  There are a few classmates I know well, like Abby Palanker, and was privvy to what happened in her case, but again, I don't pry and I don't share.  That said, I do think its my duty to inform our mates when someone passes, and will continue to do that as soon as I become aware.  Take good care.  Susan

Matthew H Stengel (1975)

Lee was my friend from our preschool days - our mothers were good friends.  She was part of a close group of friends in junior high and high school youth fellowship at our church.  Only two of us from school or church attended her funeral - when she left home she left - but her life was celebrated and mourned. 

Linda Manville (Michalak) (1976)

Matt, I don't know if you remember that I was at her funeral as well. My husband and I were there. I went up to hug Ruth after the ceremony, and she looked at my husband and said to me, "is that your son?" It's one of his favorite memories, because he definitely looks older than I do! I felt so horrible for her, losing a child is probably the worst pain somebody can have. The last time I saw Lee was at Debi Shearer's wedding, where we were both bridesmaids. We had grown apart and it was quite awkward. But we had a great talk and left on good terms. I was so sorry to see that she had passed away. 

Matthew H Stengel (1975)

Linda -

Indeed I had forgotten that you were there.  I'm glad you were.