April 2024

Lucile “Polly” Wightman Baldwin was born in Friendship, New York, on August 26, 1924, at age 99.  She went home to be with her Lord on April 15, 2024.  She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Dimmick Cemetery, Wirt, NY.

In addition to being a loving mother and homemaker, Lucile was a partner to her husband during their 50 years in the ministry in Pennsylvania, New York, and Ohio.  During WWII, she did her part in the war effort as a welder in Olean, NY.  She enjoyed her extended family, and nothing pleased her more than having all of her nieces and nephews congregate at the family homestead as “the cousins” reminisced about old times with each other and Aunt Polly.

She was a gifted musician and used her skills as church pianist, piano teacher, and accompanist for school choirs until she was 90 years old.

After retiring, and until her passing, she was an active member of First Day Baptist Church in Richburg, New York, where she and her husband had met as teenagers.  After graduating from Richburg High School, she attended Practical Bible Training School in Binghamton, NY.

John H. Young, 83, of East Kaul Avenue, St. Marys, PA passed away Monday, April 15, 2024 at Penn Highlands Elk. 

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and under the direction of Lynch-Radkowski Funeral Home and Cremation Services, Inc.

Ralph N. Pearce, 72, of 158 Williams Street, Bradford, PA passed away Monday, April 15, 2024, at Bradford Ecumenical Home. He lives in victory with his Savior Jesus Christ.

Born November 10, 1951, in Bradford Hospital, he was a son of the late Ralph A. and Mary (Norton) Pearce.

Ralph was a 1969 graduate of Bradford Area High School. After graduating he started working as a stock handler at Zippo Manufacturing.

He was drafted into the United States Army 1971, a week later he enlisted into the Army to improve his opportunities for future advancement. He earned certifications in Ground Surveillance Radar Diploma at Fort Huachuca AZ in 1971 and was stationed in Troop C Third Squadron of the 8^th US Cavalry at the Coleman Barracks in Sandhofen District of Mannheim Germany. There he earned his certificate of Achievement in Completion of Unit/Organizational Supply Procedures in 1972 and Basic Leadership Course. He completed his Ground Surveillance Radar School in 1972. Ralph patrolled the East West German border and drove armored personnel carriers during the Cold War. He was awarded the Sharpshooter M16 Badge, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal. He was honorably discharged in 1974. While in the service in Germany he played on the Army soccer team to promote better German American relations.

On June 2,1973, in the First Presbyterian Church, he married Susan C. (Rhoades) Pearce who survives.

Bonnie A. Nichols, 96, formerly of 656 South Avenue, Bradford, PA passed away Sunday, April 14, 2024, at Bradford Manor.

Born January 13, 1928, in Dayton WV, she was a loving daughter of the late Burtis and Artrolia (Chisler) Moore.

On October 6, 1947, in Clarksburg, WV, she married Dr. William D. Nichols (Nick), who preceded her in death on April 23, 2003.

Bonnie was a dedicated wife, homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ. She had a passion for gardening, she was an amazing baker, she loved being surrounded by family and mentoring children. In earlier days, she and Nick would spend time boating at the lake and enjoying life.

                   Elaine Ekblom

Elaine C. Ekblom, 76, of Warren, PA., died Sunday morning, April 14, 2024, at Kinzua Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center, Warren, PA., after an extended illness.  She was born January 21, 1948, in Williamsport, PA. She was the daughter of Catherine Vogel and Ero J. Ekblom. Elaine was a graduate of Titusville High School.  She was employed for 25+ years with the Warren State Hospital as a psychiatric aide.  She was a member of St. Joseph R.C. Church.  Elaine enjoyed hunting, gardening, and crocheting.

Shirley Ann Keller Rupprecht, 86, of 219 South Paul Road and formerly of Lawrence Street, St. Marys, PA, passed away peacefully with her family by her side Monday, April 15, 2024 at Elk Haven Nursing Home.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents, Paul L. and Viola Wurm Keller; her stepmother, Elizabeth “Betty” Orsini Keller; and her brother, Paul F. Keller.