SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Mary M. Smith, 58, of Shinglehouse, passed away with her loving by her side on Thursday, November 12, 2026, at Olean General Hospital, Olean, NY, after a long illness.
Funeral arrangements, entrusted to the care of Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, are incomplete and will be announced with a full obituary.
BRADFORD, Pa. — Science teachers in grades 6-12 can learn how microwaves interact with metals and other materials and get firsthand experience testing how materials hold up under stress, at a free National Science Foundation-funded workshop at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford in December.
The three-day hybrid workshop is led by Dr. Hadi Noori, assistant professor of engineering. The National Science Foundation is also providing a $250 stipend to help offset participation costs, including travel and lodging for the in-person session. The deadline to register is Friday, Nov. 20.
OLEAN, NY – Olean General Hospital (OGH), a Kaleida Health facility, continues to expand access to specialized cancer care for patients in the Southern Tier through its Advanced Prostate Cancer Clinic at the Barry Street Health Center in Olean. The first clinic was held on Friday, November 6.
Led by nationally recognized medical oncologist and cancer researcher Roberto Pili, MD, medical oncology director for Kaleida Health Cancer Care, the clinic provides patients with access to specialized expertise, advanced treatment options, and individualized care without having to travel farther from their families and support systems.
Dr. Pili will be seeing patients in Olean, bringing more expert cancer care services to the Southern Tier. He will be seeing patients again on Friday, December 4, at the Barry Street Health Center in Olean.
Diane K. MARTINEAU, 87, of Angelica, NY, died Friday, November 13, 2026, in the Hart Comfort House of Allegany County, Wellsville. Born March 27, 1939, in Wellsville, she was the daughter of Raymond E. and Dorothy M. Chaffee Rogers. On April 25, 1960, she married James P. Martineau, who predeceased her in 1969.
She was employed as a medical secretary by Rhode Island Hospital, Providence, R.I. for many years, retiring to New York in 2012. Diane was a devout Catholic and was devoted to her family and friends. She loved to knit and was very fond of her canine companions, Heidi, Roxy, and Bella.
Surviving are: two children, Kimberly Martineau of Angelica and James P. Martineau, Jr. of Portland, OR; four grandchildren, Leilani, Joshuah, Kevin, and Megan (Henyia); ten great-grandchildren; a great-great-granddaughter; a sister, Joanne Rahr of Angelica; nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband, she was predeceased by her brother, Eugene Rogers.
Friends may call at Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 17 Schuyler Street, Belmont, NY on Monday, November 16, 2026, from 10:00 – 11:00 AM, with Funeral Services following at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the SPCA serving Allegany County. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoustembser.com.
Smethport – Peter “Pete” L. Rizzotte, 84, of Smethport, passed away Wednesday (November 11, 2026) at UPMC-Cole, Coudersport.
Visitation will be held on Monday, November 16, 2026 from 10-11AM at Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., 2 Bank St., Smethport, PA, where a Catholic Blessing service will be held at 11AM following visitation in the funeral home. Burial will be in St. Elizabeth Cemetery, Smethport.
Memorials can be made in the form of Masses to be said for Pete. Online condolences may be made at www.hartle-tarboxfuneralhomes.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Hartle-Tarbox Funeral Homes, Inc., Smethport.
TITUSVILLE, Pa. — The University of Pittsburgh School of Dental Medicine on Tuesday celebrated the opening of its Regional Training Center at Titusville in partnership with Titusville Area Hospital — the latest move in a multi-site effort by Pitt to address Pennsylvania’s critical shortage of dental professionals.
“Rural communities are feeling the shortage of dentists most acutely, and when people can’t get routine oral health care close to home, small problems go untreated and often end up in the emergency room,” said Marnie Oakley, dean of Pitt’s School of Dental Medicine, at the event. “The lack of enough dentists in rural areas is also an economic issue as it makes it difficult to attract businesses and top talent to an area.”
BRADFORD, PA– The first Community Outreach Contest for Journey Health System’s affiliates has officially come to a close, and the results are in. After reviewing and voting on the entries, the judging panel selected the Student Assistance Program & Prevention (SAP) team at Beacon Light Behavioral Health System (BLBHS) as this year’s winner.
Managed by Sherry Henry, the BL-SAP team was recognized for its exceptional community service in Forest and Warren counties. Through its ongoing efforts, the team has helped promote prevention, provide education and connect community members in Forest and Warren counties with valuable behavioral health resources. During the 2025-2026 school year, 220 kids were served by the program.
Williamsport, Pa., November 12, 2026 – The UPMC Neurological Institute will expand access to specialized neurological care this fall through new tele-neurology services, connecting patients across north central Pennsylvania with nationally recognized experts through secure virtual visits at the clinic in Williamsport.
The clinics will offer specialty evaluations, treatment recommendations, and ongoing care coordination, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances for expert neurological care.
Tele-neurology clinics will be available one day each month in the following subspecialties:
Tele-neurology services and appointment availability are expected to expand in the coming months.
For more information about UPMC Neurological Institute services in north central Pennsylvania, visit UPMC.com/NeuroNCPA or call 570-321-2820.
Hours: Tuesday thru Thursday 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Phone: 814-697-6948
AJ Plants, Chairman 716-244-8585
Gregory Maxson, Vice-Chair 716-474-8272
Jeff Moyer, Road Master 814-203-7121
Robin Austin, Tax Collector 814-558-4336
Roger Bickleman, SEO 303-718-8417
Mike Cleveland, Code Enforcement 814-343-4350
NEW WEBSITE by January 2027: cerestwppa.gov
Meeting was called to order at 6:00 p.m.by Supervisor Chairman, AJ Plants, with 3 Supervisors, Secretary, and 4 residents in attendance. Pledge of allegiance was recited. The minutes of the October 6, 2026 meeting were read and approved.
NEW BUSINESS: Nine bids were received for the 2005 GMC truck. Bid was awarded to highest bid of $10,200. Building permit was reviewed and approved. A motion approved to go through PSATS to secure website host and get website operational. Website to be operational by the end of December with web address of “cerestwppa.gov”. The budget planning meeting was set to be held November 19, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at Ceres Township Building. There will be no increase in taxes this year. Motion approved to open approximately 260 feet of Doyle Hollow to four wheelers per request from Port Allegany Borough as they are opening Doyle Hollow. Quotes for anti-skid were obtained from Gernatt and B&R Green Trucking. Motion approved to go with B & R Trucking, lower/ton bid for anti-skid this year. Motion approved for purchase of seat covers and floor mats for new truck. Motion approved to order 2027 Ford F350 Pickup truck for LSA Grant fulfillment. 2 Resolutions were signed for LSA grant application and a resolution for settlement agreement approval with Paradise Solar Energy. ROADMASTER REPORT was given. Black topped put down where sluices were replaced. Put up new road signs, hot patched, cleaned ditch, worked on obtaining truck for LSA grant, readied truck for bid, and cutting edges.
SUPERVISOR COMMENT: Thank you given to secretary for painting done at the building.
PUBLIC COMMENT: Resident asked if Kings Run Road was bonded prior to roads bonded report being given. Kings Run is bonded.
ROADS BONDED: RAM bonded Kings Run, Barden Brook, Whitetail, Biggins Hollow, and Hilltop Logging bonded Whitetail Road.
Bills were reviewed, approved, & motion approved to pay.
The budget meeting will be held November 19th @ 6:00 p.m., and the next regular Supervisor’s meeting will be held December 1, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. Motion to adjourn the meeting was made by Supervisor Plants, seconded by Supervisor Moyer.
CERES TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS
Come join the Disabled American Veterans Chapter 72 McKean at the American Legion Post 138, 419 West Main St., Smethport, PA 16749 for a Thanksgiving Celebration Dinner, Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, FREE to the public from 12pm to 4pm. Veterans will be entered for a door prize; there will be a basket Raffle and a big-ticket item, and ALL proceeds will benefit Disabled American Veterans and their families of our community. Housebound meals may be able to be delivered by calling 814-558-2494. We hope to see you there.
David F. “Fred” Reed, 59, of Bradford, passed away on Wednesday, November 11, 2026 at the Olean General Hospital.
He was born on August 12, 1967 in Salamanca, NY, the son of the late James Woodworth and Maryanne Reed Jacoby.
He was a graduate of the Salamanca High School and later on he earned his HVAC certificate and a master’s license in plumbing.
Fred was an avid outdoorsman who loved hunting, fishing and being outdoors especially with his son.
He was the owner of BTU Supply; having started the business 30+ years ago.
He is survived by one daughter, Brianna Price of Allegheny, NY; one son, Parker Reed of Bradford; companion, Georgia Newhouse of Bradford; two stepbrothers, Donald (Judy) Jacoby and Robert Jacoby all of Limestone, NY; one stepsister, Barb Newhouse of Bradford; stepfather, Laverne Jacoby of Spring Hill, FL and two grandchildren.
At his request there will be no funeral services.
Memorial contributions in his memory can be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.
Online Condolences can be expressed at www.maschofuneral.com.
HARRISBURG – Rep. Clint Owlett (R-Tioga/Bradford) has been re-elected by his peers to serve as secretary of the House Republican Caucus for the upcoming 2027-28 Legislative Session.
His first term as secretary was marked by a significant expansion of the role the office plays in mentoring newly elected lawmakers throughout their first term in office.
“To ensure the best outcomes for all Pennsylvanians, we want to make sure our new members are well equipped to handle the many facets of the job, from constituent service to drafting legislation to understanding the role various state agencies and row offices play,” Owlett said. “It’s been rewarding to help these public servants learn and grow in their roles. I look forward to continuing that in the next session.”
In addition to the mentoring role, the caucus secretary is responsible for recording all official legislative activities that take place in the House of Representatives.
Owlett said he is also looking forward to continuing his work with the caucus leadership team as they work together to establish an agenda for the challenging session ahead.
“My goal is to always make sure the voices of my constituents in Tioga and Bradford counties, as well as the entire Northern Tier, are heard loud and clear at the capitol,” Owlett said. “We will be doing our best to combat the troubling agenda being put forth by the Shapiro administration and Democrat majorities in both the House and Senate.”
Owlett joins the following members on the leadership team:
Pictured: The faded sign, Rotarian Sharon Fitzgerald, Superintendent Doug Ulkins, Art Teacher Sarah Batson, new sign mockup.
The Coudersport Rotary Club is partnering with Coudersport Jr./Sr. High School to repair and repaint the four “Welcome to Coudersport” signs at the entrances to town. Originally a Rigas family project, the signs were installed around 2000, designed by Tudor Randall, and painted by Maureen Cracknell. After 26 years of exposure to the elements, the signs are in need of restoration.
Rotary President Greg Brink initiated the project and secured a matching Rotary District grant to help cover expenses. Art teacher Sarah Batson has developed a new background design incorporating a Milky Way photograph by local photographer Curt Weinhold. Industrial Technology teacher Mike Ingalls will oversee repairs, including replacing missing letters and preparing the wood for painting.
Students will work alongside their teachers on the project during Community Service Day on November 24. Superintendent Doug Ulkins and school nurse Jessica Rohrer are also serving on the project committee. The partnership will give students an opportunity to contribute to the community while restoring a familiar Coudersport landmark with a fresh design celebrating the area’s beautiful night skies.
Pictured: Coudersport Rotary President Greg Brink, Margo Crosby
The Coudersport Rotary Club welcomed Margo Crosby of the Potter County Historical Society as the guest of Rotarian Lynne Ruffner at its November 9 meeting at A&W West End Grill. Margo shared her research into the history of the Potter County Home and Asylum, commonly known as the county poorhouse.
Originally established in 1902, the county home housed men, women, children, the elderly, and individuals with physical and mental health challenges. The facility operated as a working farm, with residents helping raise livestock and grow food. Its population reached approximately 100 by 1908, creating overcrowding. The property later became the Maple View Complex, which was destroyed by fire on May 2, 1992. All records were lost in the fire.
Margo’s interest in the subject is personal, as her uncle was once a resident of the home. She is researching the lives of former residents, with a special goal of identifying unmarked graves in the cemetery so that proper markers can be placed. She hopes to write a book preserving the history of the institution and the families connected to it.
Margo welcomes information, photographs, and family stories from anyone who knows something about the Potter County Home and Asylum. The Rotary Club thanked her for her dedication to preserving this important part of Potter County history and restoring identities to those who might otherwise be forgotten.
Jeanette M. Johnson, 92, of Wellsboro, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at the Gatehouse, Williamsport. Jeanette was born on September 27, 1934, the daughter of the late Philip and Clara (Hartman) Geiser. She married Robert C. “Bud” Johnson on November 21, 1953, and celebrated over 61 years of marriage together until his passing on October 15, 2015.
Jeanette was a local registrar, for the Vital Statistic for Pennsylvania, in Wellsboro from 1991-2018. She was a member of St. Peter’s Catholic Church, Wellsboro, and a former longtime member of the Order of the Eastern Star, Mary Wells Chapter #452, Wellsboro, Cowanesque Chapter # 33, Westfield, and a former member of the Rebekah Lodge, Stony Fork. She loved line dancing, crossword puzzles, sudoku puzzles, and tending to her floral garden.
Jeanette is survived by sons: Alan (Barb) Johnson of Mansfield; Robert Johnson of Endwell, NY; daughters: Hilda Campbell of Gaines; Brenda (Mark) Urner of Muncy Valley; a brother, Robert (Alice) Geiser of Galeton; a sister, Janet (Kay) Greeley of Wellsboro; grandchildren: Justin, Crystal (Jason), Hillary, Alana (Esteban), Christal (Daniel), Mark (Laura), Sara (Cameron), great grandchildren: Jenna, Ian, Elysia, Carson, and Cooper. In addition to her husband and parents, Jeanette was preceded in death by a sister, Teresa Froebel, and brothers: Joseph, Leo, Wallace, Louis, and Harold Geiser.
Family and friends are welcome to pay their respect, Sunday, November 15, 2026, from 5-7pm at Tussey-Mosher Funeral Home, 139 Main St., Wellsboro, PA. A mass of Christian Burial will be held, Monday, November 16, 2026, at 10:00 am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 38 Central Ave., Wellsboro. A private burial will be in Germania Catholic Cemetery, Germania. The family suggest memorial contributions in Jeanette’s name to be made to Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, 34 Washington St., Suite 230, Wesley Hills, MA 02481, or the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704, Hagerstown, MD 21741. To share a memory or condolence with her family visit www.tusseymosher.com.
HARRISBURG – Rep. Jesse Topper (R-Bedford/Fulton) announced Tuesday that he was re-elected Pennsylvania House Republican Leader for the 2027-28 session as the caucus reorganized its leadership team for the coming term.
“I am honored to have earned the trust and respect of my fellow House Republican colleagues to continue leading this caucus in the upcoming session,” Topper said. “As we navigate a new legislative landscape in Harrisburg, I am excited to work with an energized leadership team to take on the monumental task that lays before us of strengthening the House Republican Caucus with a policy and messaging focus that connects with the people of Pennsylvania.”
We are pleased to recognize Brayden Cannella from Kane Area School District as our Student of the Week! Brayden has been a dedicated member of Mr. Finch’s Building Construction Occupations
Class (BCO) at Seneca Highlands CTC for three years, where he has consistently demonstrated hard work, a positive attitude, and exceptional focus.
Brayden is well-liked by his peers and teachers alike, and he consistently goes above and beyond in his efforts. He is known for his attentiveness in class and his willingness to tackle any
challenge that comes his way. He has been selected for the Seneca Highlands CTC Student Committee and to participate in the CTC BCO Safety Program.
Beyond his academic achievements, Brayden has also been a member of Kane High School’s soccer team, and enjoys being a competitive Trap Shooter. This combination of academic and
athletic commitment showcases his well-rounded character and strong work ethic.
Congratulations, Brayden, on being named for this outstanding student award! Your dedication and positive attitude serve as an inspiration to us all. We wish you the very best in your future
endeavors.
Travis A. Marsh “celebration of life slated”
AUSTIN, PA—Family and friends are invited to attend a celebration of life for Travis A. Marsh, 39, of Austin, formerly of Coudersport, from 3pm to 5pm on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the Coudersport American Legion, 2 Buffalo Street, Coudersport. Food will be served after the celebration.
Travis passed away on August 5, 2026.
Travis’ family entrusted his care to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
For further information, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.
The Outdoor Business Alliance celebrated 21 grantees across 19 counties, including Jefferson County’s Twisted Antler Seed Company, highlighting the geographic diversity of outdoor recreation businesses throughout the Commonwealth.
Brockway, PA – Today the Outdoor Business Alliance of Pennsylvania and the Pennsylvania Office of Outdoor Recreation announced the award of $45,000 in Pennsylvania Trout Tank grants to 21 outdoor recreation businesses across 19 counties.
OBA’s PA Trout Tank program is the first statewide grant program focused exclusively on businesses that are part of Pennsylvania’s $20.4 billion outdoor recreation industry. The 21 finalists were selected from a total of 38 applicants requesting more than $90,000 in grants—twice the funding available during this first round of grants.
Emily Rae EGGLER, 50, of Wellsboro, PA, died Monday, November 9, 2026. Born August 12, 1976, in Wellsboro, she was the daughter of Dugald Thomas and Lael C. Fontanella Eggler.
A 1994 graduate of Galeton Area High School, she earned a degree in biology from Susquehanna University in 1998. She was employed by Noxubee National Wildlife Refuge in Starkville, MS, Northern Appalachian Research Laboratory in Asaph, U.S. Geological Survey in Harrisburg, and Goodwill in Wellsboro. Emily was a member of Pine Creek Valley Church in Gaines.
She was married to Ronald M. Gilbert, Jr., who survives. Surviving besides her husband, Ron, are: her mother, Lael Eggler of Gaines; a sister, Sarah (Kevin) Adams of Hummelstown; a brother, Alex Eggler of Gaines; a nephew, Eli Adams; and a niece, Lauren Adams. She was predeceased by her father.
A Memorial Service to be held at Pine Creek Valley Church, Gaines, will be announced on a later date. Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Mary Emma PASQUALE, 89, of Germania, PA, passed away Tuesday, November 10, 2026. Born May 20, 1937, in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of Elwood Raymond and Mary Emma Hower Swanson
On June 25, 1961, Mary married Louis Pasquale, and together they built a home filled with family, good food, and more than a few cats. Mary never met an animal she didn’t love, but cats held a special place in her heart, and there always seemed to be room for one more. Her kitchen was the heart of the home. She was a wonderful cook and baker who showed her love through the meals and treats she shared with family and friends.
Mary found joy outdoors, too. She loved tending her garden and spent many happy hours horseback riding. Music was a lifelong passion, and it carried right into her faith.
A devout Christian, Mary was a faithful member of Valley Alliance Church in Ansonia, where she shared her gift by playing the piano for the congregation. She also gave her time to the church clothing drive, helping to care for those in need. Her faith guided everything she did, and she found great comfort and fellowship in her church family.
Mary is survived by her daughter, Lisa Anne McDivitt; her sons, Louis (Deborah) Pasquale, Jr. and David Frank (Lisa) Pasquale; four grandchildren; two great-granddaughters; nieces and nephews. In addition to her beloved husband, Louis Pasquale, she was predeceased by her brother, Elwood Raymond Swanson, II.
She will be dearly missed.
In keeping with the family’s wishes, no service will be held. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Potter County Animal Assistance Program – www.
Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
Susan H. JONES, born on September 10, 1947, in Dansville, NY, peacefully departed this world on November 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family in the comfort of her home in Wellsville.
Susan’s life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and dedicated service to her family and community. The beloved daughter of Theodore Jordan and Estella Hazzard, Susan was predeceased by her cherished parents, but their legacy of kindness and compassion lived on through her every action.
Susan is survived by her former husband, Gary Moss, to whom she was married at Alfred, in October of 1969. They later moved to Texas and New Jersey, where her children were born, before returning to the Allegany County area in 1974.
Susan started a new chapter in her life when she married Kirby Jones, who survives, on November 26, 1993, in Richburg. Her memory lives on through her children, Tara Moss and Collin Moss, and her cherished grandchildren, Hunter (Chelsie Lopez) Kamlay, Brian Moss, and Amanda Moss, along with her great-grandson, Killian Kamlay. Susan is also lovingly remembered by her brother, Jim Jordan.
Susan’s journey began with a solid foundation at Wellsville High School, from which she graduated in 1965. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Mansfield State College and Alfred State College Vocational Division in Wellsville, where she earned an associate’s degree in Drafting.
Her career path took her to various veterinary offices as a dedicated veterinarian technician, and later to Fisher’s Pharmacy in Wellsville, where she served as a pharmacy clerk. Her professional life was characterized by a sincere commitment to helping others, whether human or animal. Her love for animals was profound, as evidenced by her work training her German Shepherd Dogs in various disciplines and her involvement with raising and breeding horses. Susan’s compassionate spirit extended to her volunteer work with the SPCA in Steuben and Allegany counties, where she made a difference in the lives of countless animals.
Susan’s warm-hearted nature was her hallmark. She was always ready with a joke and a smile, bringing light to any room she entered. Her willingness to lend a helping hand, even if it was just a comforting hug, endeared her to all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Susan’s memory to the SPCA serving Allegany County, an organization that was close to her heart.
As we say goodbye to Susan, we carry her spirit with us, inspired by her kindness, love, and unyielding dedication to her family and community. She will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all whose lives she touched.
A visitation and memorial service will be announced by Olney-Foust & Embser Funeral Homes & Cremation, 34 West State Street, Wellsville, NY. Burial will be in Woodlawn Cemetery, Wellsville. Online condolences may be expressed at www.wellsvillefuneralhome.
Richard “Dick” Charles Mitchell, “beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, and uncle”
SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Richard “Dick” Charles Mitchell passed away on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 85. Born on April 27, 1941, to Lloyd Mitchell and Ruth Wood Mitchell Jackson. Ruth’s second husband, Paul Jackson, raised Dick in his teenage years and had a profound influence on his life. Dick spent most of his life in the Bolivar and Shinglehouse areas, building a life centered around family, faith, hard work, and helping others.
On October 26, 1963, he married Betty A Howe. Together they built a family and shared many years of memories on South Bolivar Rd. In 2014 they moved to Springfield, GA to be near his sister and escape the cold winters. Following Betty’s passing in 2018, Dick returned to Shinglehouse, where he began a new chapter of life and continued to stay active and involved in his community.
Faith was an important part of Dick’s life. He was an active church member throughout his life, spending many years as a member of the Shinglehouse Christian and Missionary Alliance Church and later attending Crosstown Alliance Church.
Dick was a farmer and construction worker who took great pride in working hard to provide for his family. His work ethic was evident in the long days he put in, often leaving home before sunrise and not returning until after sunset, only to head out and take care of the farm chores. Hard work was simply part of who he was. During the winter he joined his wife working with the school district by driving bus for many years including many weekends for his daughters’ winter color guard events. He was an active participant in his family’s lives. Always a familiar face in the crowd at high school sports events for both his children and grandchildren and as a chaperon for many campouts and hikes with the Coudersport Boy Scouts.
Over the years, Dick maintained his own hobby farm, raising a variety of animals including cows, pigs, goats, rabbits, chickens, and horses at various times. The horses held a special place in the family’s memories, as he gave his children and grandchildren the opportunity to learn to ride and develop an appreciation for them. Those experiences became a gift that extended beyond his own years of farming.
His love of farming also included a love of tractors which was evident his attendance at tractor pulls and tractor parades. Since returning to Shinglehouse Dick had collected 3 tractors including an Allis Chalmers he had been working on restoring.
Many of the family’s fondest memories were made in the hayfields during the summer. His children, sister Millie’s family, grandchildren, and just about anyone else who happened to get recruited along the way spent countless hours helping bring in the hay. Winters brought their own traditions, with many of the same helpers joining him in the woods to cut firewood to heat the family home. These were more than just chores; they were family time, memories, and traditions that will live on for generations.
A quiet and reserved man by nature, Dick also had a sense of humor and enjoyed joking around. He took great pride in attending his annual Oswayo Valley High School reunion and family reunions, keeping connections alive and enjoying the opportunity to catch up with those who had been part of his life.
Dick also enjoyed spending several winters in Springfield, Georgia. While there, he helped his landlord and close friend Mel with his goat farm and thoroughly enjoyed watching the goats in his backyard. It was one of the simple pleasures that brought him happiness.
After returning to Shinglehouse in 2018, Dick found new ways to keep busy and help those around him. He was often found mowing lawns and rototilling gardens for others, continuing to do what came naturally to him: working hard and lending a hand whenever he could. He also developed an interest in following the Oswayo Valley girls’ volleyball team, attending both home and away games for a couple of years and enjoying the opportunity to support the local sports.
Dick is survived by his three children: Tim (Julie) Mitchell of Scio, Aimee (Steve) Miller of Coudersport, and Tracey (John) Gilfert of Cuba; his grandchildren, Jessica (Dylan) Baker, Justin (Jill) Mitchell, Tawny (Kevin) Mitchell, Teal (Dustin) Davis, Caitlin (Mason) James, Connor (Lindsay) Nolan, Zac (Krysta) Miller, Kelsey Miller, Ryan Grover, Alyssa Grover, and Justin Gilfert; and ten great-grandchildren.
He is also survived by his sisters, Rachael Jackson and Millie (Bill) Blauvelt; his brother, Chet (Letha) Mitchell; and many cherished nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents and wife, he was predeceased by his oldest brother, Norman Mitchell and youngest brother, Gilbert Mitchell.
Dick leaves behind a legacy of hard work, faith, family traditions, and a willingness to help others. He taught his family the value of an honest day’s work, the importance of helping others, and the simple pleasures of spending time together. From long days in the hayfields and winters cutting wood to teaching the next generations to ride horses, these memories will remain a lasting part of his family’s story.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Family and friends are invited to gather from 10am to 11am on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at the at the Crosstown Alliance Church, 120 East Honeoye Street, Shinglehouse, where a celebration of life will follow at 11am with Pastor Tim Taylor, officiating. All are invited to a luncheon at the church after the service.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Richard Mitchell Scholarship that will be set up for an Oswayo Valley student pursuing an education at a trade school. Donations can be sent to Aimee Miller, 577 State Rt 44 N, Coudersport, PA 16915.
Dick’s family entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Dick, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
