Charles L. ‘Chuck’ Yanda Jr.

FILLMORE — Charles L. Yanda Jr., affectionately known as Chuck, passed away peacefully Thursday (July 9, 2026) at Wyoming County Community Hospital in Warsaw, at the remarkable age of 101.

Born August. 5, 1924, in Centerville, Chuck’s life was characterized by dedication to family, steadfast service to his community, and a legacy of accomplishment and kindness.

Chuck was a proud graduate of Rushford Central School. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to become the owner and operator of the Texaco Gas Station in Fillmore, where he served countless members of the community with integrity and reliability. His commitment to Fillmore was evident in both his professional pursuits and his extensive civic involvement.

A central figure in Fillmore’s public safety, Charles was a devoted member of the Brooks Hose Fire Department. Notably, he was the department’s longest-serving member, setting an example of leadership and unyielding service for generations of firefighters. Further demonstrating his dedication to education and the future of Fillmore’s youth, Chuck served Sergeant of Arms for the School Budget Review meetings during his tenure. He was a longtime Fillmore Rotarian and served as a director on the Board of the Genesee Valley Rotary Camp for handicapped children.

Chuck’s faith was integral to his life. He was a committed parishioner at St. Patrick’s Church in Fillmore, a member of the Holy Name Society and a trustee on the Holy Cross Cemetery Board. In addition, his devotion to service and fellowship extended through his membership in the Knights of Columbus.

Chuck led a full and active life beyond his professional and civic roles. He was known as an avid gardener, tending to his land with care and pride. He found joy on the golf course, savoring many rounds with friends. Cards were a favorite pastime, offering him enjoyment and the opportunity for friendly competition. A lover of books, Chuck was often found absorbed in reading, continually expanding his knowledge and interests. He especially cherished traveling south to Garden City, S.C. for the winter months, where he enjoyed warmth, relaxation and the company of friends.

Charles L. “Chuck” Yanda Jr. will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to family, his tireless service to the community, and the warmth, laughter and support he gave to everyone who knew him. His legacy endures in the many lives he touched and the community he so dearly loved.

He is survived by his daughters, Judith (Jerry) Robertson of Fillmore, Susan (Rod Renadette) Gowett of Zephyrhills, Fla. and Laurie (Randy) Mastin of Pavilion. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Jenny (Ben) Fiore, Gregory (Christy) Mastin, Andrew (Hailey) Mastin, Mathew Robertson, Michael Mastin and Daniel Robertson; and his great-grandchildren, Silas, Declan Adelaide, Lincoln Fiore, Parker, Layton, Beckett, Alyce and Gideon Mastin; his brother, Richard Yanda of Zephyrlills; and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 67 years, Alice Dunkowski Yanda; his daughter, Annie Bradford; his father, Charles L. Yanda Sr.; his mother, Christine VanName Yanda; and his siblings, William Yanda, John Yanda and Louise Yanda Mills.

Family and friends may gather from 2 to 4 and 7 to 9 p.m. Monday (July 13, 2026) at Kopler-Williams Funeral Home, 21 N. Genesee St., Fillmore. The Brooks Hose Fire Department will hold a fireman’s service at the funeral home that evening at 7 p.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11 a.m. Tuesday (July 14, 2026) at St. Patrick’s Church, 109 W. Main St., Fillmore. Burial will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, 10398 Route 19, Fillmore.

Memorials if desired may be made to Brooks Hose Fire Department or St. Patrick’s Church.

Online condolences may be made at www.koplerwilliamsfuneralhome.com.