Obituaries

Jessica Lynn Smith, 31 of Rt. 6 in Smethport, tragically lost her life on Thursday, February 13, 2025.

Jessica was born February 14, 1993, in Bradford.  She is the daughter of Jennifer Moore and Robert Hamilton Jr. of Cyclone.

On May 25, 2013, at Mystic Water Resort in Limestone, NY, she married Travis M. Smith who survives. 

Jessica was a 2011 graduate of Smethport Area Jr/Sr High School.  She later achieved her CNA certificate from the Lutheran Home at Kane, LPN from Penn Tech College and an RN Associate of Science Degree from the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford.  She was currently attending Capella University to obtain her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree.

Jessica started her medical career at Helpmates in Smethport as a home healthcare aid advancing her career to the Lutheran Home at Kane, Sena Kean Manor, Pavilion at Bradford Regional Medical Center and Bradford Manor.  At the time of her passing to heaven, she worked full-time at UPMC Kane in the acute care unit and emergency room as an RN and per diem at the Lutheran Home at Kane.

She enjoyed fishing, hunting, reading, walking, music and spending time with her family.  All her activities included her husband, Travis, and their five children.

Leah M. Sain, 81, formerly of Terrace Road, St. Marys, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 17, 2025 following a brief illness.

She was born on April 29, 1943 in St. Marys, PA, a daughter of the late Robert and Leah Spuller Dowie.

Her first husband, Robert Campana, preceded her in death on August 27, 1969. On July 5, 1973, she married the late Donald Sain, who preceded her in death on November 12, 2023.

Stuart Alan Abbott, 76, of Wellsville, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in his home. He was born October 11, 1948, in Wellsville, the son of the late Leon G. and Lena G. (Baldwin) Abbott. 

“Al” was raised in Wellsville, graduating from Wellsville High School in 1966. He continued his education at Mansfield University. He enlisted with the United States Air Force and served in the Military Police, achieving the rank of Sergeant. Upon his honorable discharge, he returned to Wellsville and entered the workforce, sometimes working up to three jobs at once, in establishments such as the Respiratory Therapy Department at Jones Memorial Hospital, Bonnie’s Frames & Things, Hart’s Jewelry, JC Penny Company, Kerton’s Greenhouse, Better Days, (under several owners), Medical Transport Services, and Genesee Valley Home Medical. He excelled in his customer service skills, but most of all was a master landscaper, working for many families in the area, and took great pride in maintaining “Bradley Gardens”. Outside of his work, he was active in the community with groups such as, The Wellsville Players (both acting and directing), the Genesee Valley Chorus, sang with and played the bells for Trinity Lutheran Church Choir, and was a member of The American Legion Post 702, Grace United Church, and the former Christian Temple. 

Theodore Roosevelt Troupe III              “beloved brother and uncle”

SHINGLEHOUSE, PA—Theodore Roosevelt “Ted” Troupe III, 69, of Shinglehouse, passed away on Thursday, February 20, 2025, in Bradford Manor, Bradford, after a long illness.

Born on Wednesday, January 4, 1956, in West Grove, PA, he was a son of Theodore Roosevelt Jr. and Clara Helen Boyle Troupe.  On April 30, 1985 in San Bernardino, California, he married Yolanda R. Gamboa, who passed away on September 2, 2024.

Ted was a graduate of Avon Grove High School in Avon Grove, PA.  He served two tours in the US Air Force and one tour in the US Army.  After his military career, Ted was employed as a security officer until he retired due to ill health.

Jack L. McMinn, 92, formally of Ridgway, died on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Pinecrest Manor following a brief illness.

 He was born on June 26, 1932, in Ridgway, the son of the late Harry and Kathryn Himes McMinn.

Jack proudly served in the U.S. Army during the Korean War, a commitment that reflected his deep sense of duty and honor. After his military service, he embarked on a remarkable career as a truck driver, working in the transportation industry until the impressive age of 87. He was a devout member of the Brady Camp Methodist Church and the Ridgway VFW.

Walburga M. Bickmire, 100, a resident of Elk Haven Nursing Home, passed away peacefully on Thursday, February 20, 2025.

She was born on November 22, 1924 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late John and Margaret Schaffer Gausman.

On April 25, 1953, she married the late Robert L. Bickmire, who preceded her in death on June 21, 1984. Together they were blessed with more than 31 years of marriage.

Wally was a graduate of Central High School, class of 1942, and was a member of the St. Marys Church. She recently celebrated her 100th birthday, and was proud to watch her extended family grow throughout the years. During her time at the nursing home, she delighted in the cards she received from the ladies of St. Marys Church and was always excited when she got cards from the local elementary school kids.

Nancy Hughes, 75, of Wellsboro, passed away on Monday February 17, 2025, at home surrounded by family. She was born on June 13, 1949, in Blossburg to Richard and Pauline M. (Whitney) Ingerick. On September 19, 1985, she married Howard W. Hughes, Jr.

She was an avid reader, having enjoyed many reads by James Patterson and Dean Koontz, she was also a member of the Stephen King Book Club. Among reading she also enjoyed cross stitching, crafting, refurnishing furniture, gardening in her flower beds (especially her rose bushes), and spending time with her family. Nancy was a devoted wife, mother and sister.

Michael S. Kovalyak, 88, of Ridgway, died on Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Penn Highlands Elk.

He was born on April 12, 1936, in Sykesville, the son of the late John and Mary Ujahus Kovalyak.

On May 12, 1990, he married the late Phyllis Shaffer Huber, who preceded him in death on July 3, 2006.

Mr. Kovalyak was a Ridgway resident since 1956 and was a member of the Faith United Church of Christ. He worked 28 years at Keystone Carbon retiring in 1998. He was a proud member of the Ridgway Moose and Ridgway Eagles.

Donna Frederick

Donna L. Frederick, 68, of Russell, PA., died Thursday morning, February 20, 2025, at AHN St. Vincent Hospital, Erie, PA.

A complete obituary will be announced when available through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., Warren, PA.

Louis R. Heinaman, 81, of 746 Interstate Parkway, Bradford, passed away Tuesday, February 18, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, at Olean General Hospital.

Born January 22, 1944, in Olean NY, he was a son of the late Harry and Gertrude (Dempsky) Heinaman. He was a 1963 graduate of Bradford High School.

On January 22, 1989, in Kane, he married Janet G. (Lehman) Heinaman, who survives.

Betty A. Kurtz, 81, of Galeton, PA, passed away on Monday, February 17, 2025 at her home.

Born June 24, 1943 in Wellsboro, PA, she was a daughter of the late Harry and Mary (Kennedy) Driebelbies. Betty was a 1962 graduate of Wellsboro High School. She was married to Carl Kurtz, who survives.

She was a Supervisor at Osram Sylvania in Wellsboro for many years. She was a member of the Pine Creek Valley Church, the Gaines Thimble Club and was the manager of the Galeton Senior Center for several years. Betty enjoyed doing puzzle books, adult coloring books and cooking.

Marilyn K. Forness, 85, of Wellsville, passed away on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, in her home with her family by her side. She was born October 7, 1939, in Bradford, PA, the daughter of the late James H. and Katherine T. (Pockalny) Smith. On October 17, 1959, she married Thomas W. Forness, who predeceased her on July 19, 2021. 

Marilyn was a 1957 graduate of Portville Central School. She entered the work force and was employed by Clark Brothers (Dresser-Rand) from 1957 to 1964. In 1964, she and her husband moved to Wellsville, to follow Tom’s career in law enforcement. For many years, she was employed by American Greetings & Hallmark; and handled merchandising for Proctor & Gamble and various other companies. Outside of her employment, she was a member of Beta Sigma Phi and Gamma Pi Sororities. Above all else, she was a mother and housewife, family was her priority all the time; including her beloved dogs, Jeter and Buddy who have passed, and Sassy J, who survives. 

Christopher John Hetrick, 46, of Ridgway, PA, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

Chris was born on December 31, 1978 in St. Marys, PA.

On October 28, 2015, Chris married the love of his life, Tammy Mosier, who remains to cherish his memory. He was a devoted husband, a beloved son, a caring brother, and a dear friend to many.

Roger B. “Pug” WALTER, 89, of Gaines, PA, died Tuesday, February 18, 2025 in his home in the loving care of his wife, daughter, and Family Hospice team.  

Born July 10, 1935, in Mills, he was the son of Benjamin G. and Thelma A. Sherwood Walter.  A U.S. Army Veteran, he served honorably from 1954 – 1956.  He was married to Joan Anderson, who survives.  Pug was employed by Consolidated/Dominion, retiring in 1992.  

He and his wife owned and operated P&J Machining for many years.  He was well-known for being able to fix almost anything brought to him for repair.  Pug always said he could fix anything but a broken heart.  He was a member of Pine Creek Valley Church in Gaines, member and Past Master of Galeton Masonic Lodge #602 (now part of Lewisville Lodge #556 in Ulysses), and Coudersport Consistory.  

Phyllis M. Muhitch, 85, of St. Marys, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, February 17, 2025.

She was born on December 15, 1939 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late John and Miriam Kreckel Arnold.

On November 19, 1960, she married the late Joseph D. Muhitch, who preceded her in death on August 9, 2013. Together they shared more than 53 years of love, laughter, and marriage.

Phyllis was a graduate of Central High School and was a member of St. Marys Church. She worked for many years at the St. Marys Public Library, and then retired from Elk County Christian High School after more than 15 years as the Librarian. She was a dedicated and organized librarian who inspired a love for reading and learning in many people over the years. In her free time, she enjoyed trips to the casino. Most of all, she loved and cherished her family and always delighted in spending time with them.

Linda J. ANDREWS, 77, formerly of Cowanesque, PA, died Monday, February 17, 2025 in Mechanicsburg.  

A complete obituary will be announced by Olney-Foust Funeral Homes & Crematory, Ulysses, PA.  

Online condolences may be expressed at www.olneyfoust.com.

Larry E. Laubach, age 93, of Morris, PA, died on Saturday, February 15, 2025. 

He was born on June 7, 1931 in Glenside, PA a son of the late Chester and Stella (Christman) Laubach and was married to the late Joanne (Mill) Laubach.  Larry was a Korean War Veteran and a truck driver for many years.  He was a member of the First Baptist Church, Cedar Run, PA, the Morris Fire Department, Brown Twp. Fire Department, Plumsteadville Fire Department and former member of the Mennonite Bible Fellowship, Morris, PA and the Deep Run West Mennonite Church, Perkasie, PA.  He enjoyed hunting, fishing, snowmobiling, four wheeling, camping, gardening and spending time with his family. 

Robert L. “Bob” “Wookie” Fields, 79, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center in Smethport following a lengthy illness.

Bob was born on March 21, 1945 in St. Marys, son of the late George “Wally” and Jeanne Scott Fields.

He graduated from Ridgway High School, Class of 1964. Bob proudly served his country in the US Navy during the Vietnam War, where he worked in the commissary aboard the USS Coontz.

Linda L. Chillelli, 75, of St. Marys, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Pinecrest Manor following a brief illness.

She was born on January 10, 1950 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late Wilfred and Callista Hanes Sorg.

She was married to the late Samuel Chillelli, who preceded her in death on June 24, 2021.

Linda was a graduate of St. Marys High School and was a member of the Elk Baptist Church. She retired from Elk Haven Nursing Home after more than 25 years as a nurse’s aide, and enjoyed the many friendships she made over the years with the residents. In her free time, she enjoyed puzzles, word searches, and playing Bingo. She always enjoyed a good card game, and loved nothing more than spending time with her family.

James H. Russell, 82, of Longview Drive, Ridgway, passed away surrounded by love on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Penn Highlands Elk.

He was born on September 20, 1942, in Ridgway, to the late Mary Cianca.

On February 4, 1967, in St. Leos Church, Jim married Linda Weisenfluh of Ridgway, who survives. Together they shared more than 58 years of love and marriage.

Jim was a graduate of Ridgway High School, class of 1960. He then went on to serve his country in the U.S. Navy. He was actively involved in the Cuban Missile Crisis while serving on the U.S.S. Independence. Jim was a member of the Ridgway Fire Department for many years, serving as a fireman and later as a fire policeman. He always looked forward to working the annual carnival as well. Jim retired from Sylvania, where he worked as a supervisor for over 30 years.

 John V. Reed II, age 71, formerly of Wellsboro, PA, died on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

He was born on March 29, 1953 in Homer City, PA a son of the late John V. Reed and Natalie (Schierer) Reed and was married to Sherry M. (Jones) Reed. John was an Operating Engineer for over 50 years and enjoyed hunting, riding motorcycles and traveling. He most loved spending time with his family and friends.

David Henry Schumacher

February 26, 1941 – February 16, 2025 

David Henry Schumacher, 83, of Barefoot Bay, FL, passed away peacefully on February 16, 2025, surrounded by loved ones. Born in Philadelphia on February 26, 1941, David was raised in Plumsteadville, Bucks County, PA. He served in the Army and was a longtime member of the local community, where he made a lasting impact through his various roles and passions.

David married the love of his life, Sally Woll, on May 20, 1967, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, followed by a beautiful outdoor reception. Together, they shared a wonderful life filled with family, service, and community. 

While living in Bucks County David was the proud owner and operator of Schumacher’s Garage and a Pepperidge Farm route, in addition to being the go-to handyman for many. David was an active member of the community, serving as the President of the Lions Club in Point Pleasant and coaching his daughters’ softball and basketball teams. Many summer picnics and pool parties were held at the house. His love for sports continued throughout his life, playing softball on Jumpin’ Joe’s team as a pitcher and first baseman.

In 1985, David and Sally moved to Potter County, where they bought the former Warriner’s Tavern and ran Schumacher’s Inn. He also worked at Stolz in Emporium and Kightlingers in Coudersport as an auto technician.  David was deeply involved in local sports, coaching Schumacher’s Women’s Softball Team and his son in the Austin Baseball Association even years after his son aged out of the program. He also shot darts for the Schumahers dart team (thankfully the team has some ringers) and continued to play softball for the men’s league for the team he sponsored, Schumachers. David was a pioneer in snowmobiling, holding several positions on the Southern Potter County Snowmobile Association board and helping to build many of the area’s bridges and creating new trails (many of them accidentally).  His volunteer work with the “Adopt a Highway” program showed his commitment to the community.  David was also a VFW Auxiliary lifetime member of Post 7810 in Austin, PA and a member of the 342 Eulalia Masonic Lodge. 

Christopher J. Hetrick, 47, of Ridgway, died unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, February 16, 2025.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

Leah M. Sain, 81, formerly of Terrace Road, St. Marys, died on Monday, February 17, 2025.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Lynch-GreenFuneral Home

Richard W. Russell, Sr.          “beloved husband, father, and grandfather”

Richard W. “Dick” Russell, Sr., 88, a lifelong resident of Coudersport, passed away unexpectedly in his home with his loving wife by his side on Saturday, February 15, 2025.

Born on Tuesday, August 25, 1936 in Shinglehouse, he was a son of William H. and Dorothy White Russell.   On August 18, 1956 in the Coudersport Free Methodist Church, he married Violet Wykoff, who survives.

Dick attended school in Inez and also attended Coudersport High School.  He was employed as a mechanic for PennDOT for over 30 years.  He had also in his younger years been employed as a milkman at Mason’s Creamery in Coudersport and also had been employed at the Damascus Tannery in Coudersport.  He served on the Homer Cemetery Association board.

Dick was a member of AFSCME Council 13 where he had served as president.  He was also a member of Arcana Lodge #580 F. & A.M. in Austin and was a member of the Coudersport Consistory. In his younger years, Dick enjoyed hunting.  He loved mowing his lawn and taking bus trips with his wife.  He enjoyed playing baseball and teaching his grandchildren the art of playing baseball.

Brian D. Wolff, 57, passed away on Tuesday, February 11, 2025 at Penn Highlands DuBois following a brief illness.

He is survived by his wife; Mary, his mother; Darlene Wolff, a sister; Jamie Gillen, and his step-brother; Blake Tromanhauser, as well as by several aunts and uncles, and many nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his brother; Jerry Wolff, his aunt: Pat Wolff, and by his grandparents.

A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made to the Diabetes Research Foundation or Cancer Research Foundation of your choice.

Lynch-Green Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 151 N. Michael Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 is handling the arrangements and online condolences may be offered to the family at www.lynchgreenfuneralhome.com

Stephen Clifford Kratts: United States Navy

Stephen Clifford Kratts, 74, of the Wellsville Manor Hills, and a former Cuba resident passed away on Friday, February 14, 2025.

Born on December 12, 1950, in Cuba, he was the son of Clifford Lewis Kratts and Rosanne Wilson Rogers.

Steve grew up in Cuba, New York and graduated from Cuba Central School in 1970.  While in high school he joined the United States Navy inactive reserve and went active duty on July 13, 1970 and was honorably discharged on October 26, 1986.

After recruit training, he was assigned to the USS Epperson serving in Pearl Harbor for two Pacific Cruises with an eleven-month service in the waters of Vietnam, in which he helped supply Naval Gunfire Support and Currier Escort Services. He also served in Keflavic Iceland and the Persian Gulf during the Iran Hostage Crisis.

Linda L. Chillelli, 75, formerly of Theresia Street, St. Marys, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Pinecrest Manor.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.

Robert L. Fields, 79, formerly of Kersey, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025 at Lakeview Senior Living in Smethport.

Funeral arrangements are incomplete and will be announced by the Lynch-Green Funeral Home.