Michael A. Erb

Michael Ashton Erb, 51, of Corfu, New York, succumbed to a courageous battle with cancer on October 24, 2003. Mr. Erb was born on July 9, 1952, in Washington, D.C. and resided in the state of New York for the past 33 years. An Army veteran, he received the national honor of Purple Heart Award while serving his country proudly in the Vietnam War. Mr. Erb was the son of William and Arlene Gentry of Luray and Lawrence Henry Erb. He was manager for many years at NAPA Auto Parts in LeRoy, New York. Mr. Erb is survived by his wife, Sharie Bialkowski Erb; three loving children, Cora, Virginia and Daniel Erb; two grandchildren, Adrianna and Alexandra; eight siblings, Diana Erb Thompson of South Carolina, Harry Smith of Tennessee, Dennis Erb, Douglas Erb, Cheryl Smith Butler, Alice Gentry Lingerfelt, Tracie Gentry Dickson and William Gentry, Jr., all of Virginia; his mother and father-in-law, Patricia and Dennis Bialkowski of Darien; an aunt, Judy Garrison of Alden; three sisters-in-law, Doreen Sharick and Brenda Aquina of Corfu and Beverly Neeland of Darien; his friend and former wife, Debbie Tavernier Erb; a cherished neighbor, Fred Nichols and many nieces, nephews and dear friends who will always remember him and the joy he shared. As a professed child of God, we know that our Michael has gone to be with our Lord, Jesus Christ. Although he will be missed greatly, he leaves behind a legacy of hard work, dignity, respect, and most of all, the joy of living. We will remember his smile and laughter each time we watch the Buffalo Bills, listen to Willie Nelson, plant a garden, celebrate Veterans Day, talk about cars, tell a good joke, or see his children smile. A memorial service was held at the CB Beach Funeral Home in Corfu, on Tuesday, October 28, with the Reverend Dr. Wilson Corr of Mine Run officiating. Memorial contributions may be made to Buffalo Hospice, Mary and Ralph Wilson, Jr. Hospice Care Unit, 225 Como Park Blvd., Cheektowaga, New York 14225.