Austin J. "Ozz" Ginley, Jr., 82, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, June 19, 2025 in his hometown of Dunkirk.
Born on January 10, 1943 to the late Austin and Lillian Ginley, Ozz was a proud lifelong resident of Dunkirk. He graduated from Dunkirk High School and later attended Fredonia State University. From 1962-1968, he honorably served in the United States Air Force as an aircraft mechanic.
Ozz was best known for his deep devotion to his family and community. A loving and proud father and grandfather, he never missed a game or moment in the lives of his children and grandchildren. His greatest joy was watching them grow and succeed -- whether on the field, at school, or in life.
Professionally, Ozz had a long and respected career. He was the longtime owner of the Peanut Café, and later served as Safety and Security Manager at Cassadaga Job Corps, where he left a lasting impact. Students often referred to him as a father figure, known for his steady support, protective nature, and compassionate guidance.
A die-hard Buffalo Bills fan, Ozz was a 25-year season ticket holder and a loyal follower of local sporting events. He loved fishing with his children and grandchildren, enjoying a classic P&G hot dog or Friday fish fry, and following the stock market with the precision of a seasoned trader. He enjoyed long rides around town sipping on Tim Hortons coffee.
A proud and longtime member of the Moniuszko Social Club, Ozz especially looked forward to his "sign-ins" with his lifelong friend, John Selig. He had many other meaningful lifelong friendships, including coworkers who became like family. He was a man known to all simply as "Ozz" or "Ozzie." His humor, and social nature left a mark on everyone who knew him.
Surviving Ozz are his children, Kristin (Michael) Edwards of Dunkirk, Michael Ginley of Colorodo Springs, CO, Marissa (Kevin) Salemi of Fredonia and Matthew (Jamie) Ginley of Fredonia; grandchildren, Devin (Allie) Carlson of College Park, MD, Aldyn (Matt) Wisniewski of Dunkirk, Alayna Carlson of Dunkirk, Joshua (Jackie) Edwards of Fredonia, Matthew Edwards of Dunkirk, Dominic, Leo and Emilia Salemi, Declan and Nora Ginley; great-grandchildren, Caleb Carlson and Jace Edwards; his sister, Bonnie (Eugene) Dloniak of Stockton; as well as many cousins, nieces, nephews, and extended family members. Ozz also shared meaningful chapters of life with his former wives, Alexis (Bryant) Ginley and Mary (Mastrelli) Ginley. He was predeceased by his parents, Austin and Lillian Ginley; his sister, Eileen Campbell; and his grandson, Michael Edwards III.
Relatives and friends are welcome to attend calling hours on Tuesday, June 24 from 4:00-7:00 PM at the McGraw-Kowal Funeral Home, 736 Central Avenue in Dunkirk. Military honors will be presented by the Dunkirk Joint Veterans Council at 6:30 PM. Interment will be held in private.
Ozz lived a life full of love, and laughter -- and he will be deeply missed by all whose lives he touched.
