Commemorative Tree Program

Erie County Parks, Recreation & Forestry acknowledges that many park areas have special meaning to our patrons and their loved ones. The Parks Department receives requests for installation of memorials and commemorations within the parks each year. We are pleased to provide patrons with the opportunity to memorialize a loved one or special event through the installation of one of our most important natural resources: trees. Commemorative Trees are available for $500.

More information about the Parks Department Commemorative Tree Program, including how to apply for a commemorative tree:

Commemorative Tree Program and Procedure

Commemorative Tree Application

For questions or inquiries, please call us at (716) 858-8355 or email us at Erie_County_Parks@Erie.Gov

Trees have been planted in memory of the following individuals:

Jaqueline Denise Potter

illustration of a tree seedling growing out of the ground

Tree Location: Akron Falls Park - Cummings Lodge
43°00'47.5"N - 78°28'44.9"W

Species: Red Oak (Quercus rubra)

Planted: September 2023

Jaqueline died on 8/8/23 surrounded by family after a brief illness. She was a union carpenter in Upstate New York for over 30 years, and she was also an instructor to the next generation of union carpenters. Jacqueline is remembered most fondly by her one and only grandchild, Maxwell Daniel Murray, age 6. "Grandma Jackie" was Max's best friend and confidant. We hope that this tree will be a place where her family will celebrate and remember her.

Daryl R. VanAlstyne

A Gift From: Daryl's Children: Jared, Brett, and Lindsey VanAlstyne

Tree Location: Chestnut Ridge Park - by Martin and MacKinnon Lodges
42°42'50.6"N - 78°44'36.9"W

Species: Scarlet Oak (Quercus coccinea)

Planted: November 2023

Daryl R. VanAlstyne of Orchard Park, NY died unexpectedly on May 29, 2021 following a tragic bicycle accident. He was a lifelong resident of Western New York and considered himself a teacher and habitual student. Daryl was happiest when outside experiencing the majesty of God's creation, tending to growing things and people, and spending time with his grandchildren. His smile was greatest when he was doing all three! Daryl was a persistent visitor to Chestnut Ridge Park and he often spent time with his children and grandchildren there. Many happy memories were made with the people who knew him best alongside the trails and trees in Chestnut Ridge and we hope that this tree will be a place for his family and friends to remember him and share in the enjoyment of this beautiful place. As Daryl was fond of saying, "Keep looking up!"

Travis A. Davidson

A Gift From: The Yuwono-Tjota Family

Tree Location: Ellicott Creek Park
43°01'41.9"N - 78°49'48.9"W

Species: Swamp White Oak (Quercus bicolor)

Planted: October 28, 2024

In loving memory of Travis A. Davidson. Beloved son of Sandra Mariacher and George "Dave" Davidson; dearest step-son of Carlo Marinello; loving grandson of Martha "Tootsie" and the late Jack Mariacher. Your life was a blessing, your memory is a treasure. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.

Terrence J. (Terry) Curtin

A Gift From: Terry's Aunt, Mary McNeill

Tree Location: Ellicott Creek Park
43°01'46.7"N - 78°49'46.0"W

Species: Swamp White Oak

Planted: October 28, 2024

Terrence (Terry) Curtin touched many with his true demonstrated love of life. He found joy in his family, friends, sports and nature. He was a "tree hugger". This Quercus bicolor (Swamp White Oak) is to commemorate his joy. "Gone but not forgotten."

Susan Woolley Hopper

A Gift From: David and Ann Hopper

Tree Location: Como Lake Park
42.894965, -78.667116

Species: Basswood (Tilia americana)

Planted: November 2024

Susan Woolley Hopper was born and raised in Depew-Lancaster, and all through her life she carried many fond memories of using Como Lake Park during her youth. In 1968 Susan joined the U.S. Department of State’s Foreign Service, and she spent more than 40 years working at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad. Throughout service at 13 different locations across the world, Susan considered Lancaster as home. Susan passed away in 2023.

John "Jack" Matte

A Gift From: The Matte Family

Tree Location: Chestnut Ridge Park
42°42'39.8"N - 78°46'05.3"W

Species: White Oak (Quercus alba)

Planted: November 7, 2024

This tree is planted in memory of John "Jack" Matte by The Matte Family.

Charles E. Milch, Esq.

A Gift From: Gibson McAskill & Crosby

Tree Location: Akron Falls Park
43°00'55.5"N 78°29'33.6"W

Species: Butternut

Planted: December 10, 2024

In memory of Charles E. Milch, Esq.