By Eileen Buckley
Gowanda, NY – A prominent Western New York art leader has been found dead in Zoar Valley in Cattaraugus County.
The body of 48-year old Simon Griffis was recovered from Cattaraugus Creek.
Griffis is the operator of the Griffs Sculpture Park in East Otto, NY. The Park was founded the Ashford Hollow Foundation.
Cattaraugus County Sheriffs deputies say hikers spotted the body floating in in the creek Monday.
The cause into his death is under investigation, but a preliminary review finds no suspicious circumstances.
Griffis is the son of Larry Griffis Jr, founder of the park.