Obituaries

William Corey

William “Bill” Corey, of Warren, PA, died Sunday afternoon, June 2, 2024, at UPMC Hamot Medical Center, Erie, PA., after an extended illness. 

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

Ruth A. Shawl:  Loving Mother and Grandmother

Ruth A. Shawl, 79, of 4430 Route 275, Friendship, NY passed away Friday, May 31, 2024 at Olean General Hospital after a brief illness.

Born on June 2, 1944, in Wellsville, she was a daughter of Kenneth W. and Gladys M. Lobdell Water.  On June 30, 1962, in Andover she married Raymond G. “Ted” Shawl who predeceased her on February 19, 2019.

She was a graduate of Andover Central School.  While her children were young, she worked in the cafeteria at Friendship Central School.  In 1978, she went to work at Cuba Memorial Hospital working in the Operating Room, Radiology Department, at one time was the Activities Director and finished her 40-year career in the Medical Records Department.

Ruth attended the Friendship United Methodist Church and was a member of McKee Tristar Chapter 242 Order of the Eastern Star.  She loved shopping, baking, cooking and gardening both flowers and vegetables.  She was able to start a conversation with anyone she met and always enjoyed sharing stories with them.  Ruth attended her children’s sporting events, concerts and activities, and made it a point to continue that same tradition with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.  She was also a special caregiver to her son-in-law John and always kept a strong connection with her nieces and nephews and their families.

She leaves behind

A Celebration of Life Service for Louis J. and Saundra Salerno, will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024, at 10:00 AM at the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc., 304 East Street, Warren, PA. 

The family would like to request that attendees avoid wearing black as we are celebrating their rich and colorful lives.

Helmuth Vanharte, 80, of Warren, PA., died unexpectedly Saturday morning, June 1, 2024, at his home after suffering from a fall.

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

I. Linnea Funari, 91, of Chase St., Kane, PA passed away Wednesday (May 29) at her residence. Born Jan. 14, 1933 in Kane, she is the daughter of the late Arthur and Mildred (Carlson) Anderson.  On Jan. 15, 1955 in Kane, she married Rudolph Funari, who preceded her in death on Feb. 19, 1998.

Linnea attended Kane Area High School.  After graduation in 1950, she worked for a local law firm.  She attended Temple University in Philadelphia, receiving a degree in accounting.  She returned to Kane and was employed at Dickman Accounting.

Linnea became a homemaker and mother of seven.  As an excellent seamstress, she made dozens of dresses for her four daughters, staying awake till all hours of the night.  Her accounting skills continued for decades as a notary and assistant to her husband at Funari’s Texaco Service Station on Fraley St.  Over the years she decorated cakes for weddings, birthdays and special events, to add to the family income.

Other employment included the Election Board of Kane, the US Census of 2010 and Walker Printing Co., from which she retired in 2003.

Linnea and Rudy enjoyed spending Sunday afternoons with their friends at local polka parties.  After 43 years of marriage, she continued this tradition of dancing with those special friends until recently.  She like to travel as well.  These destinations included a tour of Sweden with her sister and her dream vacation to the Grand Canyon in 2019.  The last big adventure was her granddaughter’s wedding in April 2024 in North Carolina.

She spent thousands of afternoons together with her sister and best friend, Corine, working, drinking coffee, chatting, and reminiscing.  She attended graduations, sporting events, plays, concerts and church activities of her children, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whenever possible.

Linnea spent her entire life serving her family and friends.  She loved to spend time gardening, sewing, knitting, baking and visiting with her family.  She will be greatly missed.

Richard Belcher

Richard E. Belcher, 81, of Sheffield, PA., died Saturday morning, May 18, 2024, at Warren General Hospital, Warren, PA., after an extended illness.  Richard was born October 9, 1942, in Warren, PA. to the late Ernest “Earl” and Leona Farr Belcher.  He was a lifelong Sheffield resident.  Richard was a 1960 graduate of Sheffield High School and earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Edinboro University.  He was employed with the Cambridge Springs School District, as a science teacher.  He also worked at G.T.E. Sylvania, Struthers Wells Corporation, and was a Psychiatric Aide at Warren State Hospital, retiring from there.

He was a Prudential Life Insurance Agent for a short time as well.

Richard was a member of the Warren congregation of Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses. Some of his hobbies were genealogy, landscaping, gardening, and hunting.

The family of Dennis C. Stromberg (deceased January 13, 2024) announces that a celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, June 8, 2024 at the Bradford Club (32-40 Boylston Street, Bradford, PA).  Visitation with family will begin at 1:00 PM followed at 2:00 PM by a program of tribute and sharing.  Friends are welcome.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the care of the Mascho Funeral Home, Inc.  

Online Condolences can be expressed at www.maschofuneral.com.

Donald E. Kibbe, 86, of Warren, PA. died Wednesday morning, May 29, 2024, at Andover Skilled Nursing facility, Andover, Ohio after an extended illness. 

He was born February 23, 1938, in Rouseville, PA. to the late Francis M. and Mary Corliss Kibbe.  He has resided in Warren since 1960 and was a 1957 graduate of West Forest High School and was employed with the former National Forge for 32 1/2 years retiring in 1998 as a press smith.

He was a member of the Warren Moose Lodge 109. 

He is survived by his daughter – Briar Lee Lane of Linesville, PA., 5 Grandchildren – Chris and Jamie Lyon, Kole, T.J. (Thad Jacob), Brinna Lane, several nieces and nephews also survive.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Patricia Fedorek Kibbe, whom he married August 8, 1959, in Oil City, PA., who died January 21, 2015, 1 daughter -Nancy Ann Lyon, who died December 9, 2016, 2 Brothers – Marion Kibbe, Lester Kibbe, 3 Sisters – Carol Kibbe, Geraldine Taylor, Barbara Rennecamp. 

A private celebration of Don’s life will be held at the convenience of the family.

Those wishing to place memorials may do so through Shriners Hospitals for Children, 1645 W. 8th Street, Erie, PA. 16505. E-mail condolences may be sent by visiting www.lewisfuneralhomeinc.com  The Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home, Inc. has been entrusted with funeral arrangements.

Charles M. “Chuck” Cummings Jr., 89, of 42 Pauls Lane Bradford, PA passed away Monday, May 27, 2024 at his residence. 

Born on July 17, 1934, in Pittsburgh, he was a son of the late Charles M. and Silvia (Herchenroether ) Cummings Sr. He attended schools in Pittsburgh. 

On February 2, 1960 he enlisted in the United States Army until his honorable discharge on September 30, 1962.

Chuck drove truck for many years retiring from Buckler Trucking. He also owned and operated Tacks Inn for 20 years.

He was a member of the Italian Club, American Legion Post 108, and the Bradford Eagles Club. He was an avid Steelers fan, and loved to vacation in the Caribbean.

Galen C. Lester, 93, of Aiken, PA passed away Tuesday, May 28, 2024, at Bradford Ecumenical Home.

Born December 4, 1930, in Guffey, he was the son of the late Harold and May (Stalker) Lester.

He was a 1948 graduate of Hazel Hurst High School. After his discharge from the service, he attended Jamestown Business College.

Galen enlisted into the United State Air Force, he served during the Korean War in Minnesota, and Newfoundland. He was later Honorably Discharged.

On July 11, 2005, in Bradford, he married Frances E. (White) Lester who survives.

After the service Galen was a life insurance agent for Metropolitan Life Insurance Company. He later was a salesman at Strohman Bakery in Olean for 16 years. Prior to his retirement he spent over 20 years as the store manager of the Mt. Jewett and Eldred Pennsylvania State Liquor Stores.

David J. Raymond, 54, of Youngsville, PA., formerly of Warren, PA., died Friday morning, May 31, 2024, in Beaver, PA.  David was born November 26, 1970, in Warren, PA. 

He was the son of John and Marilyn Kemper Raymond.  He was a lifelong Warren area resident and a graduate of Warren Area High School.  He was employed with the former Bollinger Enterprise Workshop.  He attended First Church of the Nazarene.  David was active with the Warren County Special Olympics, competing in the Track & Field events, bowling, swimming, and basketball programs.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Stanley M. Mitchell, who left us in May 26, 2024. Stanley was born January 30, 1952 and lived a life filled with love, laughter, and dedication to his family, friends, and work. 

Stanley was the beloved son of the late Joan K. (2012) and John G. (2020) Mitchell. He is survived by six siblings: Steven (Kathy), Ann, Mary (John, dec.), James, Thomas (Carol), and David, creating a strong family bond that extends to his many nieces and nephews. Stanley was a cherished uncle to his 15 great-nieces and -nephews, who will always remember his warmth and kindness. 

Phyllis Elaine Bartlett, 78, of Lawrenceville, PA passed on Tuesday, May 28, 2024. Phyllis was born on October 31, 1945 to the late Phillip (Sam) and Inez Egleston. Phyllis was preceded in death by her sister, Brenda Dianne Henry and her husband, Gary Bartlett to whom she was married on July 31, 1971. Phyllis lived her entire life in Lawrenceville, working as a beautician and operating a Boyds Bears business.

Phyllis loved her cats, dogs and horses. She enjoyed gardening, maintaining her flower beds and especially mowing her yard. She was selfless, caring and had a strong spirit. She was always there when you needed her with love, support, and strength. She enjoyed helping others. 

Phyllis was a devoted mother to Todd and Tammy and took great pride in being a Nana to her grandchildren. She is survived by her son Todd, wife Daryl, and their children Tye and Samantha, her daughter Tammy, husband Jeffrey, and their children Trevor and Gavin along with nieces and nephews.

Phyllis will be forever loved and deeply missed. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in her name. Arrangements are in the care of Kenyon Funeral Home, Inc. www.kenyonfuneralhome.com

Cynthia M. Lindsay

Cynthia M. Lindsay, 90, of Annin Creek Rd., Turtlepoint, PA passed away Wednesday (May 29, 2024) in Olean General Hospital.

      Born May 14, 1934, in Jamestown, NY, she was a daughter of James M. and Lela R. Strait Reese.  On Dec. 24, 1953, in Port Allegany, she married Harlan R. Lindsay, who died Oct. 19, 2023. They were married 69 years.

      Cynthia worked at North Penn Gas Co., Port Allegany, then with Goin McCoy & Dan Lane, Port Allegany, G.L. Carlson, Inc, from 1986-2014. She was also instrumental in the management of the family farm- Linson Dairy Farm, Turtlpoint from 1955-1986.

Phyllis M. Keech

Phyllis M. Keech, 82, of Taylor Dr., Eldred, PA passed away Sunday (May 26, 2024) in Buffalo General Hospital.

    Born November 2, 1941, in Olean, NY, she was a daughter of Harland V. and Gertrude M. Boser Gross. On June 29, 1974, in Allegany, NY, she married Albert L. Keech, who died Sept. 14, 2003.

    She was a lifetime resident of the area.

     Phyllis was employed as a housekeeper with the Midtown Motel, Port Allegany, and later with the Comfort Inn, Bradford, as head housekeeper, before her retirement.

Tricia L. McGuire

Tricia L. (Roller) McGuire, 34, of Catlin Ave., Port Allegany, PA passed away unexpectedly Saturday (May 25, 2024) in UPMC Cole, Coudersport.

      Born October 20, 1989, in Coudersport, she was a daughter of Frank E. and the late Lori A. Neal Roller.  On Jan. 30, 2023, in Bradford, she married Michael McGuire, who survives.

       Tricia was a lifetime resident of the area and a graduate of the Port Allegany High School, class of 2007. She was attending the Venango Technology Center, working towards an LPN certification.

      She was currently employed at Sena Kean Manor, Smethport.

     She enjoyed spending time with family, dancing to her favorite song, “Dancing away with My Heart” by Dillon Carmichael, and working outside her house. She was also a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan.

Catherine A. Defilippi, 81, of 145 Teaberry Road, St. Marys, PA passed away Wednesday, May 29, 2024 at Penn Highlands Elk.

She was born March 15, 1943 in Pittsburgh, daughter of the late M. Joseph and Matilda Holzle Becker.  Cathy was a graduate of Leechburg High School, Class of 1961 and continued her education at St. Francis Hospital in Pittsburgh to earn her Nursing Certificate.  She earned her Master’s Degree in Occupational Health Nursing from St. Joseph’s in Maine.  She was dedicated to her profession and considered herself fortunate to assist others during her time at Sylvania and Andrew Kaul Memorial Hospital.  She loved being a nurse and training those who were new to the profession.

On August 21, 1965 in St. Catherine’s Church in Leechburg, Cathy married Edmund J. Defilippi, who survives.  They were blessed to share 58 years of marriage and three children.

Ronald L. Lookenhouse, 72, of Russell, PA., died suddenly at his home, Wednesday morning, May 29, 2024, after suffering an apparent heart attack.  He was born April 19, 1952, in Corry, PA.  Ron was the son of Wilbur and Arlene Chapman.  He was a lifelong Warren County resident.  Ron was employed with the Warren State Hospital for 30 years and formerly with Struthers Wells Corporation.  He grew sweetcorn and sold corn at the Train Station for many years.  He was active with the Warren County 4-H program, when his kids were growing up. Ron was an avid hunter, who enjoyed hunting season at the family camp and always looked forward to friends gathering.

Kathryn Deyarmin, 80, of Warren, PA, died on Thursday, May 30, 2024, in her home.

A complete obituary will be published when it’s available through the Donald E. Lewis Funeral Home Inc.

Peter Alyoious Eckert, 86, of Bridgeville, DE, formerly of Austin, PA, passed away peacefully, Sunday, April 28, 2024, at home. He was born on July 7, 1937, in Saint Marys, son of the late Ferdinand “Fred” and Sara (Wolfe) Eckert.  He married the former Marjorie A. Huling on July 11, 1959, at the Austin United Methodist Church.  They celebrated 59 years of marriage until her passing on May 31, 2019. 

Peter worked in construction on the family farm, Stone Quarry & Coal Mine, Saint Marys, Allegany Mnt. Const., Conn-E Const., and several Const. Co. in PA and DE.  Pete also owned and operated Eckert’s Tavern and Eckert’s Exxon & Towing, Austin, and Eckert Bros. Tools Hardware & Surplus, Laurel, DE.  Earlier in life, Pete worked for his parents at Little Fella Fish Hatchery, Odin, the Rainbow Paradise, Coudersport, Greeleys Garage, Austin, The Austin Boro, and the PA Housing Authority.  Peter was known as a “Jack of all Trades”.  There wasn’t a tool made that he didn’t know what it was for and how to use it. If he didn’t know he would make it up.

Blaine A Puller, 74, of Smethport, PA passed away May 28^th.  He was born May 18, 1950 in Bradford, son of Francis and Gloria (Means) Puller.  Grandparents were Ralph and Almena (Woodring) Means and Glassell and Helen (Kelly) Puller.  Blaine married Donna Stevenson on June 9, 1973 in DuBois, PA. 

Blaine was a graduate of the Smethport High School Class of 1968 and earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Forestry at Penn State in 1972.  He was an avid outdoorsman and hunter, loved Willy’s Jeeps and was passionate about riding his Harley.  During his career he worked for 32 years for Kane Hardwood Division of Collins Pine.  Throughout his life and career he was committed to doing the best for the land long term balanced with the rights and desires of the landowners and being fair to all who worked on any given project.  He measured wealth in spending time with family and leaving a legacy of kindness, hard work and integrity. 

Blaine was a member of the Society of American Foresters, McKean County Conservation District, Allegheny Hardwood Utilization Group, McKean County Historical Society and Norwich Township Volunteer Fire Department.

Martha V. Gaton, 83, a resident of Pinecrest Manor and formerly of Spruce Street, St. Marys, PA passed away peacefully on Wednesday, May 29, 2024.

She was born on February 22, 1941 in St. Marys, a daughter of the late Lavern and Mary Troha Goodreau.

On March 28, 1968 in Emporium, PA, she married the late Jack E. Gaton, who preceded her in death on July 21, 1995.

Martha was a graduate of Central High School and member of Sacred Heart Church. She was employed part time over the years at several powdered metal factories, but mostly spent her time caring for and raising her family. She enjoyed baking and was a proud member of the Polka Boosters. In her later years, she enjoyed spending time at the Fox Township Senior Center, and treasured the friends she made there. Once she became a resident at Pinecrest, the staff and other residents became like a second family to her, and she always looked forward to participating in the activities, especially Bingo.

She is survived by 2 children; Don Gaton and his wife Jane of St. Marys and Timothy Gaton and his wife Kristen of Erie; and by her four beloved grandchildren; Adam (Kay) Gaton, Nicole (Brian) Feeley, Jessica (Kevin) Hagerty and Samantha (Brandon Grupe) Gaton and by five great-grandchildren. She is also survived by a sister; Fidelis Hupfer, and by a brother; John “Butch” Goodreau, both of St. Marys, as well as by several nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial for Martha V. Gaton will be celebrated on Friday, May 31, 2024 at 1:30 PM at Sacred Heart Church, 337 Church Street, St. Marys, PA 15857 with Fr. Thomas Curry, OSB, as celebrant.