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- Paula J. Stockman, 64, of South Dayton, NY, died peacefully in her home on Saturday, January 13, 2018.
She was born March 2, 1953, in Cuba NY, to the late Paul (Jake) and Mary Kruger.
She was the first of four children; her siblings Karen (Michael) Farwell, Karl (Marsha) Kruger and Gail (Daniel Frank) Kruger survive.
Paula grew up in Friendship, NY. At a very young age (12) she began playing the piano in her father's Big Band, The Clubmen. She also enjoyed being the church organist at St. Andrew's Episcopal Church and the First Baptist Church in Friendship as a teenager, and accompanying the school chorus on piano. Her family's love of music is how she became introduced to her sweetheart and lifelong companion, Timmie J. Stockman, as he was a music student of her father's. They were childhood and high school sweethearts, and they continued to play music together for 40 years, entertaining at various clubs with their Little Big Band and playing special music together at their church, St. Mary's Episcopal Church, in Gowanda, where she was the organist for almost 40 years.
Paula earned her Bachelor's Degree at SUNY Fredonia, during which time she studied abroad in France. She and Tim got married in 1975. They bought their home in South Dayton in 1979 and began the "labor of love," working together to renovate the property. She briefly taught math in the public school system prior to committing her time to her family as a stay-at-home-mother. She enjoyed spending time with her children, Troy and Kendra, and became involved in several activities with the children. She was a Girl Scout leader and also became involved in the Boy Scouts. She was also known as "Mama Stockman" to several of the kids at Pine Valley Central School, who still come "home" from time to time for some meatloaf.
Paula became the Village Clerk in South Dayton in the early 1990s. She also had the opportunity to serve her community as a Legislator for Cattaraugus County, where, in the latest few years, she was elected the Chairman. Paula continued to hold these positions until her death.
Paula was a Christian woman with unwavering faith. She loved to help others, and she was always seeking out individuals who needed assistance. She ministered to the sick, the elderly, and anyone who needed her help. She believed in truth, honesty, and integrity. She enjoyed being a member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars Auxiliaries, and she was an active member of the Friendship Homecomers Association Committee for 18 years.
Surviving are her husband of 42 years, Timmie J. Stockman, whom she married October 18, 1975; two children: Troy (Courtney Aquila) Stockman of Collins NY, and Kendra (Dennis Brooks) Stockman of Jamestown NY, three grandchildren: Lily Nuwer, Tiller Stockman, and Riley Brooks.
Relatives and friends may visit DiStasio Funeral Home 478 route 83 at Balcom Corners, South Dayton Thursday from 2- 4PM and 7-9PM. A funeral Service will take place Friday at St. Mary’s Episcopal Church 75 Center St. Gowanda, NY at 11 a.m.
Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Episcopal Church.
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1953 - 2018 (64 years)