Jean I. Prefer, 76, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away on August 10, 2024 at Schoellkopf Health Center in Niagara Falls, NY.  Born in Brooklyn, NY, she was the daughter of the late Jean Bender and the late John Vogt.

Jean earned her Associate's Degree and Licensed Practical Nursing license while in Brooklyn, NY, and was employed for 15 years at Wyckoff Hospital before her best role in life as a mom and caregiver for her boys.  She came to Niagara Falls with her family in the early 1980's.  Jean enjoyed playing bingo and cards, and loved attending parties and events.  Known affectionately as the "Mayor of Schoellkopf", she was very well loved and was the mother of the nursing home, earning the title of "Honorary Nurse" given her background in nursing.  Known for her sense of humor, Jean was lovingly called "Spicy Jeanie" – she was a true sweetheart of a woman, but was a Brooklyn girl at heart.  Above all, the most important and fulfilling part of her life was taking care of her family, especially her 2 sons.

Jean is survived by her daughter, Elizabeth (Joseph) Vekich, and son, David Prefer; her grandsons, Michael Vekich (Kayla Lambert) and Samuel Vekich (Amanda Seiler), as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins.  She was sadly predeceased by her son, Robert W. Prefer, and her brothers, John Vogt, Richard Vogt, and Joseph Vogt.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 15 from 4 – 7 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 MILITARY ROAD, NIAGARA FALLS, NY 14304, where funeral services will be held on Friday, August 16 at 11 AM.  Interment in Oakland Rural Cemetery, Youngstown, NY.  In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be made to Camp Good Days, https://campgooddays.kindful.com/.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.