Wilson N. Grider

Wilson N. Grider, of Lewiston, NY, passed away peacefully on Saturday, October 3, 2026, after a lengthy and courageous battle with cancer. He was 78.

Born on January 8, 1948, in Louisville, KY, Wilson was the son of the late George W., Sr. and Ann (Curlin) Grider. He was a 1966 graduate of Memphis Tech High School. In 1967, he enlisted in the United States Navy, proudly serving during the Vietnam Era until his honorable discharge in 1969.

On April 30, 1977, Wilson married the former Tammy M. Horton in Niagara Falls, NY. Together they built a loving home, raised their children, and shared 49 wonderful years of marriage.

Wilson worked as a furnace operator with Saint Gobain Ceramics in Niagara Falls, retiring in 2010 after 31 years of dedicated service. Following retirement, he enjoyed working part‑time as a dock attendant for the Maid of the Mist, where he met countless visitors and made many friends.

A man who loved the outdoors, Wilson found joy in camping, fishing, and cheering on Buffalo sports, especially the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres. His greatest happiness, however, came from time spent with his family.

In addition to his parents, Wilson was predeceased by his dear sisters, Gail Gurley and Sally Weiss.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Tammy; his loving children, Sean Grider, Luanne (Robert) Lucinski, and Patrick (Sara) Alexanderson; his grandson, Samuel; and his dear brother, George W. Grider, Jr. He is also survived by caring nieces, Bailey (Michael) Lekanka and Aubrey (Marc) Eberz; along with other nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

The family will be present to receive friends on Sunday, October 18, 2026, from 2–4 PM at HARDISON FUNERAL HOMES, INC., 401 Ridge Street, Lewiston. Military Honors will conclude the visitation.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Wilson’s honor to the Roswell Park Alliance Foundation, 901 Washington Street, Buffalo, NY 14203.

Please share condolences at HARDISONFUNERALHOMES.com.