There are many things we attribute to God that He never said. One of my favorites is the idea that God wants you to be happy. But is that true? Does God want you happy? I suppose there are several reasons people believe God wants them happy, but not in the way you might think. For example, I have heard people say that God wanted them to be happy as a reason to leave their spouse and move in with someone else.
Let’s, for a moment, go with the idea that God wants us to be happy. What would that look like? Psalm 1:1-2 gives us a clear view of what happiness might look like through God’s eyes: “Oh the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers, but they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night.” My joy, i.e., happiness, comes from my relationship with God rather than from my relationship with others. In fact, following others will not bring me peace and joy but rather the complete opposite.
Ralph H. Caldwell “beloved husband, father, and grandfather”
COUDERSPORT, PA—Ralph “Rocky” Henry Caldwell, age 90, passed away on May 5, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on May 15, 1935, in Coudersport, Pennsylvania, to William and Ruby Bradley Caldwell.
Following his graduation from high school in Coudersport, Ralph proudly enlisted in the United States Air Force on August 1, 1952. He completed basic training in Sampson, New York, followed by technical training in Cheyenne, Wyoming. During his 20 years of service, Ralph was stationed in Japan, where he married his former wife, Alicia, and together they welcomed six children: Ruby, Justin “Chris”, twins David and Dean, Pattie, and Michael.
Ralph also served at the Pentagon in Washington, D.C. for six years with a crypto clearance and later at the Finance Center in Denver, Colorado. He completed a one-year tour in Vietnam and received numerous medals and honors throughout his military career, including the Bronze Star. He retired from the United States Air Force on September 1, 1972, with the rank of Technical Sergeant.
While serving in Washington, D.C., Ralph also worked at Ralph’s Market. After relocating to Denver, he worked for many years at King Soopers, where he met the love of his life, Margaret Blake. Ralph and Margaret were married on December 16, 1979.
In 1981, Ralph and Margaret returned to his hometown of Coudersport, Pennsylvania, along with Margaret’s two children, Angela and Jason, whom Ralph lovingly adopted as his own. Together, Ralph and Margaret built a colorful and adventurous life filled with hard work, creativity, and deep love for one another. Over the years, they owned and operated several local businesses, including Caldwell’s Corner of Collectibles, Caldwell’s Office Products, and Rocky’s Pool Hall.
The couple later spent several years back in Colorado, where Ralph worked as a store manager for Edgewater Office Products, and later in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he managed the furniture department for Office Depot.
Ralph was a proud patriot who loved his country deeply and carried immense pride in his military service. He was known for being honest, strong-willed, hardworking, and deeply devoted to the people he loved. He never hesitated to speak his mind, stood firmly by his word, and loved with his whole heart.
One of Ralph’s proudest accomplishments was helping design and build the Coudersport Veterans Memorial Wall. He spent countless hours working alongside the Coudersport Historical Society, researching and compiling the names of local veterans and encouraging community members to contribute names from the Coudersport School District so they could be properly honored and remembered.
Ralph enjoyed antiques, bowling, refinishing furniture, and working alongside Margaret on home remodeling and design projects. Together, they shared a passion for restoring beauty in the things around them. He also took great pride in caring for his lawn and mowing the many acres of their home in Hebron Township.
Surviving, besides his beloved wife Margaret, are his children: Justin “Chris” (Patsy) Caldwell, Dean (Cheri) Caldwell, Mike Caldwell, Jason (Kasandra) Caldwell, Pattie (Elmer) Hamann, and Angela Caldwell; along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews.
Ralph was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers, Ernie, Charlie, James “Odell”, William “Junior”, Herb, and Frank Caldwell; his sisters, Helen Walters and Geneva Runyan; his son, David Caldwell; his daughter, Ruby Wilgus; Ruby’s infant son, Michael O’Hara; and his granddaughter, Erica Rae Hamann.
Ralph will be remembered for his unwavering love for his family, his service to his country, his fierce loyalty, and the lasting impact he left on the community he loved so deeply.
Family and friends may gather from 1pm to 2pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at Coudersport Gospel Tabernacle, 420 US 6, Coudersport where funeral services will follow at 2pm with his son, Associate Pastor Jason P. Caldwell of Fire on the Mountain Fellowship, Bradford, officiating. Burial will be in Eulalia Cemetery, Coudersport.
Members of the Potter County Honor Guard will accord military honors on Saturday at the church.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Ralph’s name may be made to UPMC Cole Home Health and Hospice, 102-108 S. Main Street, Coudersport, PA 16915
Ralph entrusted his care 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 Ralph, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Mr. Lynn R. Lawton, 85, a lifelong resident of Bolivar, went to be with the Lord, in his home with his loving family by his side, on Thursday, April 30, 2026.
Born on Thursday, November 14, 1940 in the Town of Wirt, NY, he was a son of Raymond and Margaret Hosmer Lawton. On October 1, 1960 in Obi, he married Nada J. Burger, who survives.
Lynn attended school in Richburg and Bolivar. He was employed for many years by the former American Olean Tile in Olean.
Lynn was a member of Obi Community Church in Obi. He enjoyed hunting. His greatest love was his trust in the Lord. He cherished the time he spent with his beloved family. He loved his many cats and dogs throughout the years.
Left to cherish his memory are his loving wife of 65 years, Nada; a son, Jeffrey L. Lawton of Durham, NC; two nieces; and six nephews.
In addition to his parents, Lynn was preceded in death by a son, Gregory L. Lawton, who passed away on October 31, 2023; and a brother, Hugh Lawton.
Family and friends may gather from 11:30am to 1pm on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at Obi Community Church, 1948 NY 305, Cuba, NY, where a celebration of Lynn’s life will follow at 1pm with Pastor David Cook, officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in Lynn’s name may be made to Obi Community Church, 1948 NY 305, Cuba, NY 14727.
Lynn’s family entrusted his care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse, PA.
To express condolences, light a candle or share a fond memory of Lynn, please visit www.virgillhowardfuneralhome.com or the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home Facebook page.
Family and friends may gather for a memorial visitation for Pamela A. Ruppert, 67, of Coudersport, from 11:00am to 12:30pm on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at God’s Country Ministries, 1237 E. Second Street, Coudersport, where a celebration of Pam’s life will follow at 12:30pm.
Pam passed away on April 22, 2026.
Pam’s family entrusted her care and cremation arrangements to Kevin J. Dusenbury, funeral director/owner of the Virgil L. Howard Funeral Home, Shinglehouse.
BRADFORD, Pa. — Pitt-Bradford Arts and Leadership McKean have announced updates to the upcoming “Why I Love McKean County” exhibition, part of local programming recognizing America’s 250th anniversary.
The exhibition will no longer be juried, allowing all submitted artwork that meets the guidelines to be included. The change is intended to expand access and ensure more young artists across McKean County can take part.
The registration deadline has also been extended to May 15, giving students, families and educators more time to submit work.
In addition, organizers announced new prize awards of up to $500, supported by local sponsors Allegheny Bradford Corp. and the Allegheny National Forest Visitors Bureau.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for ravioli pasta products due to misbranding and undeclared allergens. The ravioli labeled as beef and burrata may actually contain shrimp filling in lobster sauce. The shrimp and lobster, known allergens (shellfish), are not declared on the product label. FSIS is issuing this public health alert to ensure that consumers with shellfish allergies are aware that this product should not be consumed. A recall was not requested because the product is no longer available for purchase.
USDA Accepts Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Applications to Improve Access to Remote Education and Health Care in Rural Communities
(Washington, D.C., May 5, 2026) – U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development invites grant applications to improve access to remote education and health care in rural communities.
This program funds distance learning and telemedicine equipment, including audio and video equipment, to improve access to educational and health care opportunities in rural communities. These funds will help digitally connect people to education, training and healthcare resources that are otherwise unavailable or limited in remote parts of the country.
For example, DLT funding expands opportunities for:
Students to participate in classes that may be in locations too far to access in person;
Teachers to provide their expertise, trainings and educational services to students across the country; and
Patients to seek specialized care and treatment from medical professionals without needing to leave their homes or
Eligible applicants include state and local governmental entities, federally recognized Tribes, nonprofits and for-profit businesses.
The Deane Center’s free Golden Afternoons program for men and women ages 65 and older will feature Ray Corse of Sullivan Township playing his accordion this coming Tuesday, May 12, at 1 p.m. in the lobby at 104 Main Street in Wellsboro. Corse has been playing the accordion and singing since he was five years old.
Free light refreshments will be provided.
Corse plays 1900 to 1970s music, including polkas, country, and rock n’ roll songs such as “The House of the Rising Sun,” “Proud Mary,” “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You,” “Tear In My Beer,” “Love Letters in the Sand,” “Crazy,” and “Grandma’s Feather Bed,” a tune released by John Denver in 1974.
He will also perform some songs from the 1800s, like “When You and I Were Young Maggie.”
Corse also takes requests. “If I can whistle or hum a tune, I can usually play it. Everything I play is by ear,” he said.
Those planning to attend are asked to RSVP on the Deane Center’s website at deanecenter.com. For more information about Golden Afternoons, call the Deane Center at 570-724-6220.
William J. Troutman, 62, of Bushnell Street, Bradford, passed away Friday, May 1, 2026 at his residence.
Born on June 14, 1963, in Bradford, he was a son of the late Brooks Troutman and Rebecca Keys-Foster. He was a 1981 graduate from Bradford High School.
After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Navy on May 10, 1982. During his service he earned Service Deployment Ribbon, and a Good Conduct Medal, before being honorably discharged on May 9, 1988.
Bill was employed as a printer at the Bradford Era, he then started employment at USA Trucking as a truck driver.
He enjoyed riding motorcycles throughout his life.
Surviving is his half brother, Charlie (Molly) Isaman, of Bradford, step-sister, Angela (Brent) Foster-Burgess, Huntington, WV, three step brothers, Matt Byerly, of Wilston, ND, Michael Byerly, of Wilston, ND, Mark Byerly, of Bradford, and several nieces and nephews.
Family and friends are invited to attend graveside services at 1:00 pm on Friday May 8, 2026, at McKean Memorial Park Cemetery. Rev. Max Simms Pastor of the Hilltop Baptist Church, followed by Military Honors by the United States Navy and the Honor Guard of the Bradford American Legion Post 108.
Memorial contributions, if desired, may be made to a charity of the donors choice.
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Hollenbeck-Cahill Funeral Homes, Inc.
Joseph Aloysius Cirko, loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather
Emporium- Joseph Aloysius Cirko passed away on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at UPMC Mercy in Pittsburgh, after a short illness.
Joe was born at home in Warrior Run, PA, on September 12, 1941, the son of the late Michael and Anna Carey Cirko. On May 29, 1999, in the First Baptist Church in Emporium, he married his loving wife, the former Dawn S. Hickey, who survives.
Attending school only through the 8th grade, Joe didn’t have the privilege of graduating due to responsibilities that needed to be taken on at an early age. A truck driver for over 60 years, Joe knew the roads and highways across the states. He loved the freedom of the road and the scenic views on his travels. Joe also loved the outdoors, especially fishing with his loving wife, Dawn. He and Dawn shared a loving devotion to their pets.
Joe is survived by and lovingly remembered by his loving wife, Dawn; his daughter, Cindy (Dennis) Peterson of NY, and his son, Joseph D. Cirko of PA; his grandchildren, Brandi Ferris and Nicholas (Alexa) Peterson, both of NY, Carlee Crain and Kori Noel Cirko, both of PA; his great-grandchildren, Kaeden Peterson and Jaxon Peterson, both of NY; and a brother, Alan W. Cirko of PA.
He was predeceased by his parents, Michael and Anna, two sisters, and three brothers.
The Cameron County School District proudly recognizes Mrs. Julie Shaffer for her outstanding achievement as the Pennsylvania Association of Rural and Small Schools (PARSS) Elementary Teacher of the Year.
Mrs. Julie Shaffer has been a teacher at Cameron County School District for the last 31 years. She spent 2 years in 3rd Grade before moving to 5th and 6th grade where she currently serves as the ELA teacher. On Thursday, April 30th, 2026 Mrs. Julie Shaffer was invited to attend the PARSS conference in State College, Pennsylvania to accept the distinguished award.
Selected from a competitive pool of 39 candidates across the state, Mrs. Shaffer’s recognition highlights her exceptional dedication to her students, her school community, and the field of education. Mrs. Shaffer creates a nurturing and engaging classroom environment where all students are encouraged to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. Her commitment to meeting the diverse needs of her learners, along with her passion for fostering a love of learning, has made a lasting impact on countless students and families.
Colleagues recognize Mrs. Shaffer as a compassionate educator, innovative instructional leader, and tireless advocate for her students. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure student success, both inside and outside of the classroom, and serves as a role model for fellow educators.
This prestigious honor not only reflects Mrs. Shaffer’s individual excellence, but also brings pride to the entire Cameron County School District and its commitment to high-quality education in rural communities.The district extends its heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Shaffer on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the positive difference she makes every day.
Volunteers planting seedlings at previous RGS planting.
Tionesta, Pa.: A reminder from Garrett Baker, Upland Bird Hunt Chapter Habitat Coordinator, that we could use a few more volunteers for planting shrubs for wildlife on Saturday, May 9, at Tionesta Lake. Volunteers should meet at 1:00 p.m. at Tionesta Lake, in Forest County, and the work should be completed by 4:00 p.m.
The meeting spot will be the parking lot of the Mt. Zion Lutheran Church at 2048 German Hill Road, Tionesta, 16353. We will caravan to the parking site from the parking lot. Park staff and RGS Volunteers will be available to answer any questions.
You do not need to be member of the Ruffed Grouse Society to help – anybody interested in wildlife is welcome!
Donald E. BAILEY, Jr., 66, of Sabinsville, PA, died Thursday, April 30, 2026 in his home. Born October 22, 1959, in Renovo, he was the son of Donald E. and Carol Gilroy Bailey.
A graduate of Bucktail High School in Renovo, he earned an associate’s degree in mathematics from Mansfield University. He was married to Susan Foster Bailey, who survives. He was employed as an electrician by several area manufacturing companies. Donnie was a member of Kamp Kant Hitem for 40 years. An outdoorsman, he enjoyed fishing at Black Lake, NY and hunting with his sons. He loved his family, especially his grandchildren, his labs, and rock-n-roll music.
Surviving besides his wife of 43 years, Susan, are: four children, Carrie (Jason) English of Wellsboro, Donald (Megan) Bailey, III of Wellsboro, Benjamin Bailey of Westfield, Alexander Bailey of Germania; adopted son, Duane McCullough of Germania; 14 grandchildren; three siblings, Michael (Lori Ann) Bailey of Florida, Thomas Bailey of West Virginia, and Cathy Noble of Tampa, FL; aunts, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his parents; and a sister, Debra Bauer.
A gathering to celebrate Donnie’s life will be held on a later date. Burial will be in Parker Hill Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Kettle Creek Hose Company. Arrangements are under the direction of Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory. Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.
