Seven people will be inducted into the Honeoye Falls-Lima Alumni Hall of Fame at a ceremony as part of the Fall Weekend activities this Saturday, September 27.
FREDERICK NOWACK
Lima Class of 1948
Frederick Nowack, always known as Fred, was born in 1931 in Honeoye Falls. Later, the family moved to the country, still in the town of Mendon, and Fred attended a one-room country school. Fred was a team player and willingly joining in even at an early age, helping with harvesting the produce to be preserved to feed the family through the winter months.
In 1941, the family moved to Lima and Fred began attending Lima School District #9, Lima High School. As soon as he was old enough, Fred began playing basketball, a sport he loved. After high school, he enlisted in the Army.
At first, he was stationed at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC, where he was again playing basketball. After World War II ended, he was transferred to the Occupation Forces at General MacArthur’s headquarters in Tokyo where he again participated with the basketball team.
After discharge from the military, he made his family home in Lima where he served at Lima Presbyterian Church, giving a helping hand wherever needed and became part of the Lima Historical Society. Fred also spent many hours working with Red Willison baseball youth leagues, and as a manager of the Dodgers.
While he was serving as a rural mail carrier, he studied to become Officer in Charge at the Lima Post Office. Later, he took the position of Postmaster at the Post Office in Honeoye Falls.
Through it all, Fred battled a serious kidney illness which the doctors felt was worsening in his position as Postmaster. It was at that time that Fred and his wife, Chiyo, decided to move to Honolulu so they could be near their daughter.
Louise Dolliver writes “Fred gained his expertise by helping others and learning from them. He was a great inspiration for young people to become a good citizen. His military education as well as his time with the Postal System, gave him valuable knowledge that he carried throughout his career. Even after returning to Hawaii, Fred did accounting work in the condominium community where they lived.”
Carl A. Nowack, a retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, shares that “Fred Nowack was a man who I am proud to call my father. He dedicated his whole life to his community and turned down opportunities to ensure he could take care of his family too. In my life, he taught me the values of honesty, hard work, and sacrifice, and I dedicate the success I’ve had in my life to the man who raised me to understand these values.”
Robert B Wiggins writes, “I don’t know what merits inclusion in the Hall of Fame. We all tend to be impressed by outside success, either financial, athletic or political, and rightly so in many cases. But communities like Lima and Honeoye Falls are what they are thanks to great people who stuck around and made life good here. That describes Fred Nowack perfectly.”
RICHARD “DICK” JOINT
Honeoye Falls Class of 1962
Hall of Fame applications are reviewed for evidence that nominees demonstrate “significant contributions” through life-long examples that provide “positive role models for today’s students.” Student translation: is this Alum an “Influencer?” Consider the rhythm of Dick’s daily routine with numerous intersections and examples that are rooted in family and relationships across our community.
School years began inside the Schoolhouse at the intersection of Taylor and West Bloomfield Roads just a short walk from his family homestead. With centralization of the country districts, academics moved to East Street, where Dick climbed stairs to Class, played in the Band and perfected “moves” as a Hornet Wrestler.
A review of Dick’s civic and community service and his professional work reveal his deep roots in all things “Mendon” and his unwavering support for family and friends. Dick is always ready to volunteer his mechanical skills, his inventory of equipment and his time.
Dick’s family was among founders of the Mendon Fire Department, which he joined in 1964 serving alongside his brother Ron. Sixty-one (61) years later, you will find this local and state honoree answering calls, assisting with Carnival, Parades, Department events and property maintenance. And, in 2024, Dick was elected to the Board of Commissioners who provide necessary fiscal resources, facilities and equipment to ensure emergency response within the Fire District.
Other affiliations share Dick’s legacy of longevity and service to others. For example, at Saint Catherine’s Church he framed Carnival booths, called Bingo and did small jobs. He coached Little League during his son’s era, became a team business sponsor in 1976, and began volunteering his time and equipment for Youth Baseball.
Dick uses generations of tractors for utilitarian purposes and to celebrate our community’s agrarian roots. You can watch or join local, Central and Western New York entrants as Dick leads the annual Tractor Parade through Ionia, to cheers of delight from all ages. Or, visit “Uncle Dick’s Tractor Museum” open for tours to whet your appetite with a carefully curated collection of vintage cars, tractors and farm equipment.
From his professional career start with Hank Ford, to his mid-1970’s launch of “Richard Joint Home Improvements” Dick continued roofing and vinyl siding contracting with “the same excellent workmanship, honest and fair practices” he was known for. Professional awards and testimony of Dick’s ethical business standards note his impact on product development and application, his counsel on industrial practices and especially his 24×7 customer service availability.
As a third generation Mendon resident, we witness the life lessons learned from his family, teachers and community mentors. In-turn Dick models this legacy for now the fourth and fifth generations of his family and all of us who are privileged to know him. If you enjoy the quality of life in this community, thank Dick Joint for his significant contributions. If you need to make an introduction, ask him about Mendon, or a tractor. You will quickly learn he is indeed a positive and welcome Influencer.
ADELLE MARIE JOHNSON
Honeoye Falls-Lima Class of 1974
While in high school, Adelle was a leader of many school organizations, such as being the National Honor Society President, as well as serving in leadership roles in the Student Exchange Club, Senior Class Advisory Council and Junior League. Setting the stage for what would become her life’s work of bringing people of different cultures together, Adelle also represented HFL and the USA as a foreign exchange student to the Netherlands.
Upon her HFL graduation, Adelle would go on to Union College where she would earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Modern Languages (Mandarin, German) graduating Magna Cum Laude. After 4 years working as a travel agent in Washington DC, Adelle returned to Union College to earn an MBA in International Management and Market Research, graduating Summa Cum Laude. She spent 18 years conducting market research in the corporate world.
Adelle would then join Avant Ministries where for twenty years she would use her business skills, and personal experiences, to prepare teams for ministry in Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. With Avant, Adelle traveled around the world doing missionary work, language tutoring, along with humanitarian assistance.
A high school classmate, Roxanne Keltz, said this: “Adelle’s love of languages, people, and her God took her on adventures around the world, working for Avant Ministries, searching for people to help. She . . . was research director in China for a team; assisted teams helping families, as well as learning their languages and customs from them in Senegal, Spain, Malaysia, Vietnam, Italy, Greece, and Thailand.” Adelle also lived in the Republic of Georgia for 18 months.
Adelle would eventually move to Asia for nine years where she became an Executive Assistant for the Vice President of Field Ministries, Mark Bruner. Mr. Bruner says this about Adelle: “Adelle was a huge contributor to our leadership team’s communication and administration. Her strong faith, inner joy, and love of people were evident through every endeavor. She was an inspiration to us all”.
In addition to her ministry career, Adelle has volunteered as a Girl Scout Leader, Church Youth Director and a facilitator of her Church’s singles groups. In the many referrals to Adelle’s accomplishments, she has been described by words such as “Integrity, Generous, Compassionate, Resilience and Curious.” Perhaps Adelle is summed up best by this sentence: “She is the epitome of an inspirational life”.
NANCY DOMBROSKI COATES
Honeoye Falls-Lima Class of 1975
Nancy Dombroski Coates, a 1975 graduate of Honeoye Falls-Lima High School, exemplified a life of unwavering dedication to her community, family, and the values of service and leadership. As a student-athlete during the early days of Title IX, Nancy was among the first young women to participate in varsity sports at HF-L, excelling in soccer, volleyball, basketball, and softball. Her pioneering role helped lay the foundation for generations of female athletes.
Nancy’s passion for sports continued into adulthood. She earned a degree in Physical Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and became a certified volleyball official, serving for 26 years at both high school and collegiate levels. She trained new officials, interpreted rules at state meetings, and led the Central Western Volleyball Officials (CWVO) as president. Her leadership was marked by humility and heart. “Her leadership culminated in her service as President of CWVO, a position she held for many years with distinction and humility,” wrote Christine Pessagno, a colleague and friend.
Yet Nancy’s impact extended far beyond the court. She was a tireless volunteer, a devoted church member, and a beloved presence at school events. Whether sewing dresses for refugee children, organizing church campouts, or running the clock at basketball games, Nancy gave her time freely and joyfully. She was a Girl Scout leader, a food pantry volunteer, a Sunday School teacher, a member of the church choir and a musical costume maker. “If it needed to be done, Nancy did it,” remembered Bonnie Coddington, who nominated her for the HF-L Alumni Hall of Fame.
Nancy’s life was a masterclass in quiet leadership. She never sought recognition, but her influence was deeply felt. Her faith, generosity, and resilience inspired all who knew her. Even as she battled cancer, she continued to serve others without complaint. Her strength and grace left a lasting impression on her family, friends, and community.
Nancy’s first love was her family, raising 5 HF-L student athletes with her husband, Gene: Kelly, Jessica, Bethany, Jared and Alyssa. Nancy’s daughter, Jessica, wrote: “She helped others because she believed in putting good into the world. My mother was devoted to the community she grew up in and raised her family in. She was a role model not only for my brother and sisters but to the whole community. She was very generous with her time and loved this community.” Nancy’s love for children extended past her family when she was a paraprofessional in many classes at Lima Primary working patiently and lovingly with all children who crossed her path.
Nancy Coates embodied the spirit of service, compassion, and leadership. Her legacy continues to inspire, and her life’s work stands as a shining example of what it means to give back with love and purpose. Some people do ordinary things in extraordinary ways, and the ripple effects of those actions are endless.
STEPHEN WERNER
Honeoye Falls-Lima Class of 1978
Stephen Werner, a 1978 graduate of Honeoye Falls-Lima High School, has built a remarkable legacy of leadership, service, and dedication to agriculture and community. From earning his Eagle Scout rank with all three Palms and representing the U.S. at the 1975 World Jamboree in Norway, to becoming a Cub Scout leader and lifelong community advocate, Stephen’s commitment to service began early and never wavered.
Professionally, Stephen has been a leader in agricultural sales since 1987. After starting at Monroe Tractor, he joined Empire Tractor in 1993, where he earned the company’s top salesman award for ten consecutive years. Now serving as Remarketing Manager for Champlain Valley Equipment, he oversees used equipment operations across 11 stores in New York and Vermont. His expertise in both modern and antique farm machinery has made him a trusted advisor to farmers and collectors alike.
Stephen’s civic involvement is equally distinguished. A member of the Lima Volunteer Fire Department since 1990, he has served in multiple leadership roles and remains an active-duty firefighter. He is also a 30-year member of Union Lodge #45 of the Free and Accepted Masons, where he served two terms as Master and received the Gold Award for Outstanding Service in Masonry. His passion for agricultural education led him to join the Hemlock “Little World’s” Fair Board in 2022, where he curates and demonstrates antique equipment at the fair’s museum.
In local government, Stephen served on the Lima Zoning Board of Appeals for 20 years before being elected to the Lima Town Board in 2023. He also serves on the Mark Tubbs Park Commission, where he leads beautification efforts and supports long-term development projects. In 2023, he founded the Lima Pumpkin Festival & Ag Day, a free community event that now draws over 4,000 attendees annually and has raised over $11,000 for park improvements.
For over 25 years, Stephen has also brought joy to the community as Lima’s beloved Father Christmas, appearing at parades, libraries, and civic events to spread holiday cheer. His behind-the-scenes contributions—whether planting flowers at the park, helping a farmer in crisis, or mentoring youth— reflect his selfless nature and deep-rooted commitment to community.
Stephen and his wife, Denise, have lived in Lima for 38 years. Their children, Emily and Eric, are both HF-L graduates, and they are proud grandparents to four granddaughters. Stephen Werner’s life is a shining example of service, leadership, and community pride.
BRIAN NEENAN
Honeoye Falls-Lima Class of 1992
Brian Neenan’s greatest strength is his unwavering moral compass—shaped by his family, his faith, and his upbringing on Neenan Farms. Guided by a deep commitment to service, a belief in the dignity of every person, and a drive to lead with integrity, Brian exemplifies the values that define the HF-L legacy.
A proud member of the Class of 1992, Brian stood out early as a leader and athlete. He served as Senior Class President and captained the basketball, baseball, and Sectional Champion soccer teams. His leadership and dedication were evident even then, laying the foundation for a life of purpose and impact.
Brian continued his education at SUNY Geneseo, earning a BA in Mathematics, followed by a master’s degree from SUNY Brockport and a District Administrator certification from the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts. With a strong academic foundation, he embarked on a distinguished career in education.
Over the years, Brian has held numerous leadership roles, including high school math and computer science teacher at Fairport, assistant principal at Victor Junior High, principal of Willink Middle School in Webster, and assistant superintendent for instruction and deputy superintendent in Webster. He currently serves as the superintendent of the Webster Central School District.
His leadership has earned widespread recognition. While principal at Willink Middle School, Brian was named Administrator of the Year by the School Administrators Association of New York State, Region 11, and received the George Vito Administrator of the Year Award for his exceptional dedication to students and staff.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Brian is deeply committed to his community. He is on the Webster Economic Development Alliance Board of Directors, coached HFL – Mendon Youth Baseball and Basketball, served on the Board of Directors for the HFL – Mendon Youth Baseball, is a member of the Rochester Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, is a member of the Webster Chamber of Commerce, and volunteers as an usher and communion minister at St. Catherine of Siena Church. His kindness, humility, and service-minded spirit have made him a respected and beloved figure in every community he touches.
At home, Brian is a devoted husband to Laura and a proud father to Aidan, Finley, and Siobhan. He supports their academic, musical, and athletic pursuits with the same passion and care he brings to his professional life.
The many letters of support for Brian speak to his ever-present smile, his genuine optimism, and his ability to lead with grace and humility. He represents all that is good in education, leadership, citizenship, and family.
Brian Neenan embodies the very best of the HF-L legacy—leadership, service, kindness, and the enduring power of the paw.
ALICIA ZYSMAN CROMWELL
Honeoye Falls-Lima Class of 1999
Alicia Rose Zysman-Cromwell, MD , a 1999 graduate of Honeoye Falls-Lima High School, is that rare person who is incredibly bright and enormously personable. Alicia’s gifts were shown throughout her high school years where she excelled academically, participated in several musicals, played tennis and danced! She was a member of the National Honor Society and a recipient of the Principal’s Leadership Award. She also did urban tutoring through the Unitarian Church.
After high school, Alicia attended Princeton University where she received a degree in molecular biology and was elected to the National Society of Collegiate Scholars. She received her MD from the University of Rochester in 2007. While there she was vice-president of her class, Honor Board representative, winner of the Ziegler Prize in anatomy and a member of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. She was also a member of Alpha Omega Alpha, the National Medical Honor Society. After her residency there, Alicia was board certified in Family Medicine.
Throughout her training at the University of Rochester, Alicia was encouraged to be a specialist instead of being a primary care family doctor in a small town. As Dr. Mary Kay Ness writes, “As you can tell from her official CV of academic and professional accomplishments, Alicia is a highly trained physician who has chosen to live and practice family medicine in Honeoye Falls. This was not an accident or an easy decision, given the allure of specializing— in recognition and more pay. However, she knew from her upbringing that she wanted to live in Honeoye Falls where she could raise a family in a professional setting that cherishes family.” As a child she saw the impact her parents, Drs. Nadette Jacob and Jules Zysman and Drs. David and Mary Kay Ness had on this community. She saw being a small-town family doctor not just as a profession but as a calling.
Over the years, Alicia has led her practice through change from private practice to the enterprise of Rochester General Hospital. However, she knows that the real magic of medicine can’t happen without caring and advocating for each and every patient. She shares with her patients in the most difficult and stressful moments of their lives and treats each patient like family.
Alicia embodies wisdom, calmness and integrity — qualities that shone brightly during the COVID pandemic. In this challenging time, she took the lead in providing medically sound information to her patients. As a long-serving member of The Mendon Library Board of Trustees, she guided the staff to move carefully through that crisis and enabled them to serve their patrons while resuming limited service and opening to patrons prior to most libraries in the area.
Alicia is a devoted wife to Matthew Cromwell and mother to their sons, Isaac and William. She can be seen walking to work, cheering her sons in their sports, tending her garden. The HF-L community has benefitted greatly from her choice to be a doctor in a small town!
